John Obi Mikel Urges Victor Osimhen to Join the Premier League Over Saudi Move
Former Super Eagles captain and Chelsea legend, John Obi Mikel, has publicly expressed his strong desire to see Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen make a high-profile move to the English Premier League (EPL) this summer. According to Mikel, it would be too early for Osimhen to leave European football for a move to the Saudi Pro League, despite big-money offers on the table from the Middle East.
With the 2024–2025 transfer window now open and clubs in Europe and beyond preparing to reinforce their squads, Osimhen's future has once again become a hot topic of debate among football fans, scouts, and analysts alike. Mikel, one of Nigeria’s most respected football voices, believes Osimhen’s best next step is to stay in Europe — preferably the Premier League — where he can further cement his legacy as one of the world’s best strikers.
Mikel: Premier League is Still the Best Destination for Osimhen
Speaking to Metro UK, Mikel shared his opinion on where the Napoli forward should be playing next season.
"I hope there is still a Premier League move for him this summer," Mikel said. "I think the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United still need a striker. I don’t think [Rasmus] Højlund is the guy for Manchester United. He works hard, but he’s not the one to get them back in the top four or win trophies. For me, Manchester United might be the destination."
Mikel’s comments reflect a growing sentiment among many Nigerian football supporters who are eager to see their star forward playing in one of the world’s most competitive leagues. For them, Osimhen’s power, speed, and goal-scoring instinct make him an ideal fit for the Premier League — especially for top clubs that are currently struggling to find a reliable striker.
Why a Move to Saudi Arabia Might Be Too Early for Osimhen
Osimhen has been strongly linked with a transfer to Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal, a club known for signing high-profile players such as Neymar, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Sergej Milinković-Savić. Reports suggest that the Saudi club is willing to offer a record-breaking salary to lure Osimhen away from Napoli.
However, Mikel believes such a move would be premature and could hinder the striker’s development at the peak of his career.
"I don’t want to see him in Saudi right now because he still has so much to offer in Europe," Mikel continued. "It would be a shame to see him go there. Maybe Arsenal, United, Juventus, or PSG — let’s see what happens."
This perspective resonates with many Nigerian football fans who view Saudi Arabia as a destination for players in the later stages of their careers. Osimhen, at just 25 years old, still has many years of top-level football ahead of him and the opportunity to win prestigious titles in Europe — including the UEFA Champions League.
Chelsea’s Missed Opportunity and the Victor Osimhen Dream
Osimhen was widely expected to join Chelsea Football Club last summer. The London club was in desperate need of a proven striker and reportedly came close to securing the Nigerian’s signature. However, the deal eventually collapsed during the final stages of negotiation, leaving fans and pundits disappointed.
Instead, Chelsea opted to sign Liam Delap, a young forward from relegated Ipswich Town — a decision that many view as a gamble, especially considering the club’s struggles in front of goal last season.
Mikel didn’t hide his disappointment about Chelsea missing out on Osimhen, particularly because of the striker’s childhood connection to the club.
"Everyone knows who I wanted to see come to the football club and who the fans wanted," he said. "It’s a shame he didn’t join Chelsea, the club he supported as a kid. But the club has gone in a different direction by signing Delap, and that’s fine. I hope it works out for him."
"But I would’ve loved to see someone come in and hit the ground running — someone who knows how to perform in big games and big competitions. Still, we have to support Delap and hope for the best."
For Chelsea fans — and Nigerian fans who follow the club because of legends like Mikel and current hopefuls like Osimhen — the failure to land the striker is a bitter pill. Yet the door may not be permanently shut, especially if Osimhen remains open to future opportunities in the Premier League.
Why Manchester United or Arsenal Could Be Perfect Fits
Both Manchester United and Arsenal have had inconsistent performances from their attacking lines in recent seasons. United, in particular, has been relying heavily on the young Dane Rasmus Højlund, who, despite his work ethic, has struggled to meet expectations.
Mikel’s remarks about Højlund were honest and blunt — a reflection of the high standards required to play for a club with the history and ambition of Manchester United.
"He works hard, but he’s not the one to get them back in the top four or win trophies," Mikel stated.
United is a club in transition and desperately needs a proven goal-scorer to return to former glory. Osimhen’s playing style — aggressive pressing, clinical finishing, and ability to lead the line — makes him a dream signing for United fans.
Arsenal, on the other hand, is building a young, dynamic squad under Mikel Arteta, and a world-class striker like Osimhen could be the missing piece to challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title.
Final Thoughts: Osimhen Must Choose Legacy Over Money
While Saudi clubs are offering financial security beyond imagination, Mikel and many fans believe that Victor Osimhen should prioritize legacy over money. At just 25, he is already one of Africa’s most feared strikers and has the potential to become a global icon if he continues to perform at the highest level.
A move to the Premier League — whether it’s to Manchester United, Arsenal, or another top club — would put Osimhen in the global spotlight, increase his endorsement value, and give him the chance to win the trophies every top footballer dreams of.
What Do You Think?
Should Victor Osimhen join the Premier League this summer, or is a move to Saudi Arabia the right step for him? Share your thoughts in the comments section below and don’t forget to follow NaijaRush.com for the latest updates on Nigerian footballers and their careers abroad.
