“I scored goals because I wanted to escape”- Lyon star Gift Orban reveals quality that has been key to his rise

Super Eagles striker Gift Orban has stated that his hunger for goals is what has helped him excel in the course of his career, Soccernet.ng reports.

Orban has enjoyed a meteoric rise in the last 20 months. The 21-year-old rose to prominence last year when he joined Belgian club Gent from Norwegian second-division side FC Stabaek.

Upon his transfer to the club in January 2023, Orban registered 15 goals in 16 appearances in the second half of the season. Following his impressive performances for the club, he was linked with a transfer away from Gent, with top European clubs like Tottenham and Barcelona in the mix. However, Gent kept him till this season.

The former Stabaek man registered three goals in 17 Belgium Jupiler League appearances. Despite his slow start to the season, Orban sealed a transfer to French Ligue 1 side Lyon in a deal worth €12 million.

At just 21 years of age, Orban's trajectory is quite impressive, and the sky seems to be the limit for him if he can find his feet in France. Speaking on his major driving force, Orban has shared that his desire for scoring goals has been key.

“When I was a kid, my only concern was getting the ball into the goal, even when it was in my half. I was capable of shooting from distance if I saw the goalkeeper in a poor position.

“If I was told to make ten passes before scoring, I’d rather score directly. The most important thing is putting the ball in the goal, so I have that in the blood. Goals saved me and changed  my life. I scored goals because I wanted to escape, I managed to leave Africa thanks to that talent.

”When I arrived in Norway, it was difficult for me, I even went back to Nigeria for a while, then they gave me a three-month contract. That was my chance; the manager let me play, and I scored twice in successive games.

“I really had to organise my game. When I turned professional, I understood there would be highs and lows. We can’t win all the time, it was a difficult adaptation, but I had to get on with it.”

Meanwhile, Orban has not hit the ground running at Lyon, as he is yet to find the net after seven league games. Nonetheless, he is optimistic that the goals will soon start coming.

“Now, for example, I find it hard to play as a lone striker because I am used to playing with two, it’s better for me, but I have to get on with it and move forward.

“When I arrived at Lyon, I knew I had to be patient, even if I’m not a patient person. I want to play. I know my chance will come, and even if I only play 10 or 15 minutes, I will try and best to help the team.”

Lyon currently sit 10th in Ligue 1 with 31 goals from 25 games. With nine points left, Orban will be looking to end the season on a high.