Osimhen Must Aim To Be Like Messi And Ronaldo – Former Ajax Star

The Lille forward has been brilliant over the last two seasons, but former Nigeria international Tijani Babangida has charged him to aim for the very top.

The ex-Ajax winger believes that Victor Osimhen has the qualities to deliver quality performances at the level of both Messi and Ronaldo should he work hard enough.

Osimhen put behind a frustrating period at Wolfsburg to smash home 20 goals for Sporting Charleroi last season, earning a €12 million move to Lille in the summer.

The 21-year-old has been an instant hit at Stade Pierre-Mauroy, netting 18 times from 36 outings across all competitions, while accounting for six assists.

The youngster’s profile has seen him being likened to Nigeria football great Rashidi Yekini, while his form has seen him linked with a summer move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Babangida is delighted that Osimhen is fulfilling his huge potential, but the 1996 Olympic Games gold medalist wants the Lille star to place more focus on becoming one of the game’s finest.

“I watched him in the Champions League when he played against my club, Ajax, even though they lost, and I must say that he is not doing badly,” Babangida told Goal.

“I also follow him in the French league, and it’s not surprising that the big clubs are coming for him.

“He should never be satisfied with what he has. He should always try to play at Messi and Ronaldo’s levels, which is difficult but realistic.

“If a good offer comes, he has to go, but for now, he should focus on Lille and respect his contract.”