Former Nigeria international Odion Ighalo has weighed in on the ongoing transfer saga involving Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, urging the Napoli star to prioritise financial security.
In a candid appearance on The Echo Room podcast, Ighalo, who previously starred in the Chinese Super League and Saudi Arabia, stated:
“Victor Osimhen won the Scudetto for Napoli, first time in decades. He’s also Africa’s Footballer of the Year. My advice? Go to Saudi, play two years, make your money and return to Europe. Take care of yourself.”
The 36-year-old’s comments come amidst ongoing uncertainty over Osimhen’s next destination, with Galatasaray and Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia all reportedly in the mix.
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While some fans and pundits have urged Osimhen to chase legacy over financial gain, Ighalo insists players must consider their long-term well-being.
“Everyone keeps saying, go to Chelsea, take a pay cut, why not Saudi? But the truth is, sometimes your opinion doesn’t matter. He has to do what’s best for him and his family.”
Beyond the pitch, Ighalo spoke passionately about his efforts to invest in Nigerian grassroots football.
Odion Ighalo.Photo Credit: X
Since 2017, the former Manchester United and Watford striker has been running a personal football academy, providing opportunities for underprivileged boys.
“I’m not doing this for money. I haven’t even sold a single player. This is charity.
These kids have a place to sleep, they eat, they train, they have jerseys, boots, transport. They just focus on football.”
Ighalo revealed he has acquired over 20 plots of land where he plans to construct a mini stadium, hostel, classrooms, and a permanent training base for the academy.
“Hopefully by God’s grace, very soon I will start constructing the stadium. These boys won’t need to worry about what to wear or eat just develop and believe in themselves.”
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When asked if he dreams of owning a football club someday, Ighalo didn’t rule it out.
“That’s what I’m building towards. I already have the academy, now I want to build the infrastructure – stadium, hostel, classrooms – and eventually, have a proper football team that competes professionally in Nigeria.”
Ighalo’s project mirrors what clubs like Remo Stars have done in terms of facility investment and player development a vision he believes more ex-professionals should pursue
