Napoli marksman Victor Osimhen was crowned 2023 African Player of the Year on Monday, ousting both Mohamed Salah and Achraf Hakimi to win the coveted award for the first time.
The Nigerian enjoyed a monumental season at the Partenopei in 2022/23, which saw the Neapolitans crowned Italian champions for the first time since 1989/90, and saw him become the first African to top the league’s goalscoring charts with 26 goals.
It’s a dream come true for me,” Osimhen said upon winning the award. “I appreciate Nigerians for their support. I appreciate Africa for putting me on the map, encouraging me, defending me, regardless of my shortcomings.”
By winning this award, Osimhen becomes the first Nigerian to be crowned best player in Africa since 1999 when Nwankwo Kanu won it while playing for English giants Arsenal.