“He can become extraordinary” – Spalletti, Di Lorenzo confess Super Eagles striker’s brilliance

The Italians have witnessed firsthand the attacking abilities of the Nigerian international but expect more from him next season

Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti and
full-back Giovanni Di Lorenzo agree that Victor James Osimhen is a fantastic striker who can even get better with time.

Victor Osimhen worked with manager Gennaro Gattuso in his first season at Napoli and managed ten goals in 30 matches across all competitions.

The 2021-22 campaign was even more challenging for Osimhen, with the Super Eagles striker missing nearly two months due to a freak head injury that required surgery.

Still, the 23-year-old forward contributed 18 goals and six assists in 32 games for Napoli.

What Luciano Spalletti said

Luciano Spalletti admits Osimhen is fantastic, and the Napoli boss expects the youngster to improve further with more time spent on the pitch.

“He is a fantastic player who can become extraordinary because he has so many things to learn,” Spalletti said at a press conference, as per Tutto Napoli.

“Having him available from the start and more time on the pitch, it will be easier to catch those things where he needs to improve.”

What Di Lorenzo said

Napoli defender Giovanni Di Lorenzo agrees with Spalletti that Osimhen is an excellent striker who can deliver more goals next campaign.

“He is very strong; he has room for improvement,” Di Lorenzo said.

“This year, despite some injuries, he had a good championship. We hope that he will repeat himself and score many goals.”

Napoli are doing their best to keep Osimhen in Naples amidst interest from England and Germany for his services.

Head coach Spalletti sees the Nigerian international staying beyond the transfer window and has been exploiting ways to get the best from the former Lille lad.

Osimhen scored a few stunning goals with his head last term and Spalletti concedes that he is looking to set up the team to provide all-round service to the Nigerian.

Responding to a question about playing Osimhen more centrally, Spalletti said, “We will tell him, we will try to make him increase the number of goals.

“He is strong with his head; we will provide him with all the plays that will help him. It is the times that count in football; he just has to rest assured because he has enormous potential and to have trust in teammates.”

Napoli have already signed highly-rated Georgian playmaker Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and are being linked with free agent Argentine wizard Paulo Dybala. Kvaratskhelia and Dybala are technical players who can help take Osimhen’s game to the next level.

Napoli will be chasing titles on three fronts next season – the UEFA Champions League, Serie A, and Italian Cup.