Asamoah Gyan hails Victor Osimhen as modern football’s standout striker
16th January 2026
Former Ghana captain Asamoah Gyan has named Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen as the forward who best defines modern football, praising the Super Eagles striker for his hunger, heart and ruthless edge in front of goal.
Osimhen, who currently plays for Galatasaray, has established himself as one of Africa’s most feared attackers and remains a central figure for Nigeria. With 35 international goals to his name, he is edging closer to the long-standing record set by Rashidi Yekini.
Speaking in an interview with former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, Gyan spoke warmly about the qualities that set Osimhen apart.
“Victor Osimhen loves scoring goals. He plays with heart and gives everything on the pitch,” Gyan said, highlighting the striker’s relentless work rate and natural instincts in the penalty area.
The 40-year-old, who remains Ghana’s all-time leading scorer, also admitted surprise that Europe’s biggest clubs did not move decisively for Osimhen in the most recent transfer window. He suggested that the Nigerian forward would be a natural fit at Old Trafford.
“I really like these kinds of strikers,” Gyan added. “I’m surprised the big clubs didn’t come for him. But hopefully, Manchester United could be an option, if he wants to come, considering the club’s history and everything.”
Osimhen’s reputation has continued to grow on both the continental and European stages, with his blend of pace, power and determination making him a constant threat for defenders. His influence has been particularly evident at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where he is expected to lead Nigeria in the third-place play-off against Egypt in Casablanca on Saturday.
Gyan, who scored 51 goals in 109 appearances for Ghana and remains the highest-scoring African player in World Cup history with six goals, knows the demands placed on elite strikers at the highest level. His endorsement of Osimhen carries weight, a nod from one of Africa’s most decorated forwards to a player he believes is carrying the torch into a new era.
As Osimhen continues to chase records and silverware, admiration from figures like Gyan only reinforces his status as one of the continent’s defining footballers of his generation.