Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has advised Victor Osimhen to avoid a move to Saudi Arabia this summer, saying the Napoli striker still has more to prove in Europe.
Mikel, who spent over a decade playing for Chelsea, believes Osimhen is too talented to leave Europe now. He described the idea of a Saudi move as disappointing, given Osimhen’s potential and current form.
“I don’t want to see him in Saudi right now,” Mikel said. “It would be a shame. He still has so much to offer in Europe.”
Osimhen, 26, recently completed a successful loan spell at Galatasaray, where he scored 37 goals in 41 matches. Although he is set to return to Napoli, tensions between the player and the Italian club remain. Galatasaray reportedly wants to keep him, but Saudi club Al-Hilal has also shown strong interest.
Mikel admitted he had hoped Osimhen would join Chelsea, especially since the striker grew up supporting the club. However, Chelsea has since signed Liam Delap, reducing chances of a move to Stamford Bridge.
“Everyone knows I wanted him at Chelsea. It’s sad it didn’t happen,” Mikel said. “That was the club he admired as a boy.”
Now, Mikel believes that Arsenal or Manchester United could be better options for Osimhen. He stressed that both clubs still need a proper striker and hinted that Osimhen could fill that gap.
“I think Arsenal and United need someone like him. I don’t believe Hojlund is the right fit for United,” Mikel added. “Manchester United might be the right place for him.”
Although Manchester United won’t play in any European competition next season, Mikel thinks Osimhen might still consider the move.
“He might say, ‘Let me give it one season.’ It’s something he could think about.”
Mikel also revealed he’s had personal talks with Osimhen and said the striker is working hard to secure a top-level move.
“We’ve spoken a few times. He wants to compete at the highest level and win the Champions League,” Mikel said.
For now, fans continue to wait and watch where Osimhen lands next. But for Mikel, one thing is clear — Victor belongs in Europe.
