Osimhen Has The ‘Head Of A 40-year-old’ – Gattuso Reacts To Nigerian Youngster’s Serie A Debut

The former Lille forward made a massive impact from the bench at Parma on Saturday to help his team begin the campaign on a winning note

Napoli boss Gennaro Gattuso has heaped praises on Victor Osimhen for displaying deep maturity beyond his young age after the Super Eagles striker inspired Il Partenopei to a 2-0 victory over Parma on the opening weekend of the Serie A.

The Blues were labouring towards a goalless draw in the encounter when Gattuso sent on Osimhen on the hour mark, and the visitors’ attack was boosted almost instantly.

The 21-year-old had a hand in the first goal, nearly created another shortly after, and should have found the back of the net when presented with a decent chance.

Seeing Osimhen torment Italian top-flight defenders could make one forget that he grew up in a tough district of Lagos, lost his mother at a young age, and sold water inside Lagos traffic to help his family make ends meet.

Speaking to Reuters after the Parma game, an impressed Gattuso could not contain his admiration for someone so young, yet so committed and passionate about his craft.

“I was struck by Osimhen’s serious attitude,” said Gattuso.

“He hasn’t forgotten where he came from and the sacrifices he made.

“He built himself up on his own, and I congratulate him for his will and desire. He is a young lad with the head of a 40-year-old. I hope he doesn’t make mistakes and doesn’t change his attitude.”

Osimhen could make his first league start and open his goal account for Napoli next weekend at home to Genoa in Serie A’s game week two.