Nigerian footballer Victor Osimhen has been crowned the 2023 African Footballer of the Year.
Osimhen appreciated the legendary Emmanuel Amuneke, who coached him at the U-17 level. He also appreciated the Nigerian fans.
“First of all, I want to say thank you to God for everything. Special thanks go to Mr. Emmanuel Amunike; without him, I don’t think I would be standing in front of you guys holding one of the most prestigious awards in world football,” he said at the gathering of the creme-de-la-creme of African football and beyond.
“It’s a dream come true for me. I want to thank everyone who has seen me through life’s journey. In achieving my dreams, in achieving my goals.
“I appreciate Nigerians for their support; I appreciate Africa for putting me on the map, for encouraging me, and for defending me regardless of my shortcomings.
“I also thank Emmanuel Adebayo for his encouragement. Solomon Kalou, I appreciate you and every African legend that I have looked up to while growing up has inspired me. Didier Drogba, my role model, thank you so much. God bless you all,” he said.
The prize is a recognition of Osimhen’s exploits for his Napoli club side and the national team where he is a key member. He spearheaded the Italian team’s unprecedented Serie A title run, scoring 26 goals in the league to become the first African to win the top scorer award. His contribution broke George Weah’s record as the highest-scoring player from the continent in the Italian top flight.