Senegal’s captain Koulibaly reveals three football personalities’ roles in Victor Osimhen’s development

The Nigerian youngster endured a tough debut campaign in Italy, but he looks settled in Naples, and his club teammate have pointed out the three persons who may have been responsible

Senegal defender Kalidou Koulibaly has credited Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti, former AC Milan midfield general Gennaro Gattuso, and Greek star Konstantinos Manolas with helping Victor Osimhen settle and prosper in Napoli. 

A lot was expected of Osimhen when he joined Napoli last year from French side Lille for an African record transfer fee.

But the young forward, who scored 20 goals in a single season for Sporting Charleroi and 18 goals in a year for Lille, struggled to replicate those numbers in Italy. Osimhen only found the back of the net ten times.

However, the youngster looks rejuvenated at the start of this campaign, with five Serie A goals and four Europa League goals already in his kitty.

Senegal captain Koulibaly is convinced that Osimhen is finally delivering the results of the good works done on him by former and present Napoli bosses, Gattuso and Spalletti.

Koulibaly also appreciates Osimhen’s easy-going character, which has helped him form a good connection with other Napoli stars, especially Greek centre-half Manolas.

“His first year was very difficult; he still has a lot to prove,” the Teranga Lions skipper told Dazn in quotes relayed by TuttoNapoli.

“He is a very kind, humble boy, who is also funny and makes a lot of jokes, especially with Manolas.

“Gattuso helped him, he gave him a lot of strength and trust, and Spalletti is completing his growth process.”

Napoli face one of their toughest tests of the season when they make the trip to the San Siro to face reigning Serie A champions Inter Milan this weekend.

Osimhen will aim to carry his fine scoring form during the international break into that clash.

The former Golden Eaglets striker scored two crucial goals against Liberia and Cape Verde to help the Super Eagles progress to the Qatar 2022 World Cup playoffs.