Italian footballer Mario Balotelli has ranked Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen among the next generation of great players after the era of Lionel Messi. Balotelli, who currently plays for Serie A side Monza, also tipped AC Milan's Rafael Leao to reach the level of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. He stated that Osimhen and Leao could reach the height of world-class players if they maintain their focus.
Speaking on Muschi Selvaggio's podcast, Balotelli said, "As long as Messi plays, I will continue to say that he is the strongest player around. Afterwards, perhaps, it will be the turn of Haaland and Mbappe. Also, keep an eye on Leao and Osimhen: with the right head, they can reach the level of Erling and Kylian."
Osimhen has already notched up 25 goals this season for his club Napoli and is tipped to become a great player if he keeps his head in the game. The striker had been noticed following his exploits at the 2015 FIFA U17 World Cup in Chile, where he scored ten goals.
Meanwhile, Osimhen once had a chance to join Arsenal, but he preferred a move to Germany, where he joined Wolfsburg in 2016. He initially signed a pre-contract with the Bundesliga outfit, and by 2017, he officially joined the club. Osimhen ceded that Arsenal was a good team for young players but felt the Bundesliga outfit was his best move.
Osimhen's performance in the Italian Serie A this season has been impressive, with 25 goals in 33 appearances, including a hat-trick against Sampdoria in February. The 23-year-old striker's current form has been one of the highlights of the Napoli season, and his performances have caught the attention of several top clubs across Europe.
Balotelli's endorsement of Osimhen and Leao's potential has also generated a buzz among football enthusiasts, with many eager to see the Nigerian and Portuguese players' future development in the sport. The former Manchester City striker's prediction that the two young players could reach the level of Haaland and Mbappe has also sparked interest, as both players are currently among the world's top strikers.
Balotelli's comments have also sparked a debate on social media, with many fans expressing their opinions on the potential of the young stars. Some fans have argued that while Osimhen and Leao have shown promise, they are still a long way from reaching the level of Haaland and Mbappe. Others have expressed optimism about the Nigerian and Portuguese players' future, believing that they have the potential to become world-class players.
Despite the debate, one thing is certain: Osimhen and Leao's future in football looks bright, and they have the potential to achieve great things in the sport. With their youth, talent, and determination, it is only a matter of time before they make their mark on the football world.
Balotelli's comments about Osimhen and Leao's potential have also highlighted the importance of maintaining focus and having the right mindset to achieve success in football. While talent is undoubtedly essential in the sport, it is the mental aspect that often separates the best from the rest. Osimhen and Leao's determination to succeed and their ability to remain focused on their goals are crucial factors that will determine their success in the future.
Overall, Balotelli's comments about Osimhen and Leao have generated significant interest in the football world, with fans eager to see the young players' future development. With their potential and determination, there is no doubt that Osimhen and Leao have what it takes to become world-class players and make their mark on the football world. It
Reviewed by Eclectic Streams
on
April 27, 2023
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