AFCON 2025
Victor Osimhen remains one of Africa’s brightest football stars, admired for his relentless goalscoring and tireless work ethic.
However, as the race for the 2025 African Player of the Year heats up, questions have been raised about whether the Nigerian forward can retain his place among the continent’s very best.
Despite his strong reputation and impressive numbers, several factors could stand in the way of him lifting the prestigious award this year.
1. League Competitiveness
The first major factor working against Osimhen is the level of competition in the Turkish Süper Lig, where he currently plays with Galatasaray.
Although he has maintained an impressive goalscoring record, the league is not rated as highly as the Premier League, La Liga or Serie A.
Performances in a less visible and less competitive environment may not carry the same weight in the eyes of voters, who often lean towards players excelling in the biggest European leagues and tournaments.
2. Rival Contenders
Another challenge comes from the fierce competition posed by high-profile rivals across Europe. Achraf Hakimi has been outstanding for Paris Saint-Germain, contributing both defensively and offensively at the highest level.
Mohamed Salah remains one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League, while Serhou Guirassy has impressed in the Champions League, a stage where Osimhen has not dominated this season.
These players have the advantage of playing in more prestigious competitions, giving them greater exposure and stronger cases for the award.
3. Big Match Influence
Finally, Osimhen’s limited influence in major international tournaments and big matches could weaken his chances. While his league performances remain excellent, voters tend to reward players who deliver decisive moments in competitions such as the Africa Cup of Nations, World Cup qualifiers or the UEFA Champions League.
Without a string of standout displays on those big stages, his domestic form in Turkey may not be enough to convince voters to hand him the continent’s most prestigious individual honour.
