Osimhen's Napoli Surprise: Scout Reveals Initial Reservations

Napoli Scout Breaks Silence on Osimhen's Transfer

 “When I got back, I made my report on the game and noted that there were two other strong player...”

From doubt to success: Victor Osimhen's journey to Napoli stardom, revealed by former scout Leonardo Mantovani.

Victor Osimhen, Super Eagles forward, made a high-profile move to Napoli from LOSC Lille in the 2020 Summer transfer window for approximately €77 million. Interestingly, former Napoli head scout Leonardo Mantovani revealed that Osimhen initially didn't fit the club's needs.

Mantovani shared his insights in an exclusive interview with Radio Napoli Centrale, “I happened to see him [Osimhen] in a Champions League match between Ajax and Lille. But, in reality, we were there to observe Ajax's full-backs, Mazraoui on the right and Tagliafico on the left.”

He continued, “When I got back, I made my report on the game and noted that there were two other strong players: one was Soumaré, a midfielder, and the other was Osimhen. This striker who ran a lot, covering the entire area - maybe he even ran too much (he laughs). But he was truly unstoppable.”

Osimhen's impressive work rate and unstoppable nature eventually won over Mantovani and Napoli, leading to his signing. The Nigerian striker has since become a key player, contributing significantly to Napoli's Serie A title victory after 33 years.

Leonardo Mantovani, former Napoli head scout, revealed that Victor Osimhen initially didn't fit the club's striker profile. “The full-backs were strong, but I also noted that Osimhen wasn't the player who fit our needs at that time,” he admitted.

However, Napoli's Coppa Italia win under Gennaro Gattuso marked a tactical shift. Gattuso sought a dynamic, fast-paced approach, requiring a forward who could exploit spaces and add depth. Mantovani's team reevaluated Osimhen, recognizing him as the perfect fit for Gattuso's vision.

The Nigeria international has since become a cornerstone of Napoli's success, proving pivotal in the club's rise. Today, Osimhen stands as one of Serie A's most formidable strikers, validating Gattuso's foresight and Mantovani's revised assessment.

Napoli's adaptation of Gattuso's playing style revitalized Osimhen's prospects, transforming him into a key asset. His speed, agility, and goal-scoring prowess have made him indispensable to the Naples-based club.

Mantovani's revelation highlights the evolving nature of football strategy and player evaluation. Osimhen's transformation from an ill-fitting talent to a vital component underscores the importance of adaptability in team building and scouting.