Nigerian forward Olakunle Olusegun says training with Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon has shown him what it truly means to be a Super Eagles player.
The 23-year-old made his senior debut for Nigeria this year, describing the experience as the fulfilment of a lifelong dream and the start of a journey he hopes will take him to greater heights.
“Playing for my country at the top level is something I can’t explain,” Olusegun told Athletic NG in an exclusive interview. “They called me, I came, and I played. It was unforgettable.”
Olusegun credits senior teammates Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon for helping him adapt quickly to the demands of the national team.
“The person I always talk with every time is Moses Simon because he’s my senior man, and I need that encouragement,” he explained. “He and Osimhen always encourage me to keep improving.”
Photo Credit: Photo Credit: NFF COMMS
The young forward says Simon’s calm guidance and Osimhen’s intensity have both shaped his early Super Eagles experience.
“In training, Osimhen doesn’t joke at all that’s something I’ve learned from him,” Olusegun said. “No matter where you find yourself, don’t joke with your work.”
Beyond his performances, Olusegun says what stands out most about Osimhen is his humility.
“He’s a very cool guy. Most people would be proud, but he’s not. He talks to everybody, that’s what makes him a leader.”
Olusegun adds that watching Osimhen’s approach up close has given him a new understanding of professionalism and focus at the highest level.
Olusegun made his first competitive debut for the Super Eagles against Benin Republic in Uyo during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Photo Credit: Olusegun/X
Early promise and rise through the ranks
Olusegun first came to global attention as part of Nigeria’s 2019 Under-17 World Cup squad, where he scored in the Golden Eaglets’ Round of 16 defeat to the Netherlands.
READ MORE:morocco-make-history-with-maiden-u20-world-cup-triumph-over-argentina
That followed an impressive campaign at the 2019 Africa U-17 Cup of Nations, where he found the net in a group-stage win over Angola. His pace, directness and composure made him one of the standout prospects of Nigeria’s youth generation.
Olakunle Olusegun during his U17 days. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Following the tournament, Olusegun began his professional journey in Europe. He first moved abroad in 2020, joining FDC Vista Gelendzhik in Russia before switching to Fremad Amager in Denmark, where he scored seven goals in 34 appearances. His performances there earned him a move to Bulgarian side Botev Plovdiv in 2021.
Although he did not make a senior appearance for Botev, Olusegun was loaned to Krasnodar-2 in Russia’s second division, where he quickly impressed with his pace and work rate.
Club career and progress
His performances with Krasnodar’s reserve side earned him promotion to the first team and, on 14 June 2022, a permanent deal with FC Krasnodar. He signed a four-year contract and went on to become a regular in the Russian Premier League.
In March 2024, Olusegun extended his contract until June 2028, after helping the club challenge in the league the previous season.
He scored three goals in 28 appearances last term, taking his tally for Krasnodar to 12 goals in 91 matches.
Photo Credit: X
On 23 July 2025, the forward joined Pari Nizhny Novgorod on loan, where he has continued to develop, scoring two goals in 14 appearances so far this season.
Looking ahead, the former Golden Eaglet believes his Super Eagles debut is only the beginning of a long and rewarding international career.
“I believe more is still coming, and I have that belief,” he said with a smile.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
With Nigeria targeting qualification for the next World Cup, Olusegun says the team is focused and united.
“We are determined and we know what we are going there for,” he added. “We’re hopeful for the future, and let’s see what the games hold.”
Having built his career steadily across Europe from Russia to Denmark and Bulgaria Olusegun’s journey reflects both patience and persistence. “The sky is only the beginning,” he said.
