Afcon 2023: Obi Mikel backs Victor Osimhen to win Player of the Tournament

Former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi has tipped Victor Osimhen to win the Best Player of 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Jose Peseiro has already released his final 25-man squad for the AFCON tournament with Osimhen leading the attack as Nigeria are in the same group as the host nation Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, and Equatorial Guinea.

Osimhen will lead Nigeria’s quest to end a 10-year wait for the AFCON title and he is expected to light up the tournament.

The 24-year-old rose to the pinnacle of African football becoming the first African to be named best striker in Serie A’s 125-year history.

He netted 26 goals en route to Napoli’s crowning as Serie A champions for the first time in over 30 years.

Sharing his thoughts in an interview with CNN, on the potential standout performer, Mikel who lifted the prestigious title 10 years ago, ending a 19-year wait for Nigeria, singled out Napoli’s forward as his pick for the Player of the Tournament honour.

“Like I have said a few times, he looks to me like Didier Drogba, with a bit of similarity here and there. He will score goals, he will give you goals, and he will hold a play.

“[He is a] strong, young, {and] energetic striker. Yeah, when it comes to that department, when it comes to that striking force, right now, I think we are blessed.

“If I need to pick a player who will probably win the player of the tournament, I will go for Victor Osimhen.”