Osimhen vs Mbappé: Could the Nigerian star fill the Frenchman's boots at PSG?

Kylian Mbappe and Victor Osimhen | Photo Credit: Imago, Fabrizio Romano on X

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Kylian Mbappe and Victor Osimhen | Photo Credit: Imago, Fabrizio Romano on X

Osimhen vs Mbappé: Could the Nigerian star fill the Frenchman's boots at PSG?

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 09:44 - 18.07.2024

Nigeria's Victor Osimhen is closing in on a move to PSG as Kylian Mbappe's replacement, but how do the two compare?

As Kylian Mbappé's departure from Paris Saint-Germain becomes a reality after Real Madrid unveiled him as a new player, the French giants are left with the daunting task of replacing one of football's brightest stars. 

Among the names being floated as potential successors, Victor Osimhen, who is closing in on a sensational return to Ligue 1, stands out as an intriguing option. 

But how does the Nigerian striker compare to Mbappé, and could he truly fill the void left by the French prodigy?

Osimhen and Mbappe’s Scoring Ability

Mbappé's goal-scoring record at PSG is nothing short of phenomenal, with 255 goals in 305 appearances for the Ligue 1 champions. 

Victor Osimhen and Antonio Conte in Napoli training.
Victor Osimhen and Antonio Conte in Napoli training. (Photo Credit: Imago)
Former PSG striker Kylian Mbappe
Former PSG striker Kylian Mbappe | Imago

Osimhen, while not quite at that level, has been impressive in his own right, netting 76 goals in 114 games for Napoli. 

The Nigeria Super Eagles star’s strike rate has been steadily improving, suggesting he may be entering his prime.

Victor Osimhen netted 15 goals in 25 appearances last season.
Victor Osimhen netted 15 goals in 25 appearances last season. | Credit: Imago

Osimhen’s Playing Style

While both are forwards, their styles differ significantly. Mbappé is known for his blistering pace, technical skills, and versatility across the front line. 

Osimhen, on the other hand, is a more traditional number 9, excelling in aerial duels and offering a strong physical presence.

Kylian Mbappe scored 255 goals for PSG.
Kylian Mbappe scored 255 goals for PSG. (Photo Credit: Ligue 1/X)

Also, the current African Player of the Year is renowned for his work rate and pressing ability which could bring a new dimension to PSG's attack.

Age and Potential

At 25, Real Madrid’s latest galactico, Mbappé is already a global superstar with his best years potentially still ahead. 

Victor Osimhen. (Photo Credit: Napoli/X)
Kylian Mbappe kisses the Real Madrid badge during his presentation.
Kylian Mbappe kisses the Real Madrid badge during his presentation. (Photo Credit: Real Madrid/x)

Osimhen, also 25, appears to be on an upward trajectory. While he may not have Mbappé's trophy haul, Osimhen's recent Scudetto win with Napoli proves he can perform at the highest level.

The Nigerian proved decisive as Napoli ended a 33-year wait to become Italian champions again in the Serie A.

Adaptability

Mbappé's ability to play across the front three has been crucial for PSG. Osimhen, while primarily a central striker, has shown flexibility in Napoli's system. 

His ability to adapt to PSG's style of play and potentially form partnerships with Ousmane Dembele and other attacking talents will be crucial.

Victor Osimhen
Unlike Mbappe, Napoli striker Victor Osimhen is a number 9. | IMAGO PSG have reportedly renewed their Victor Osimhen interest (Credit: Imago)

Champions League Experience

While Mbappé has been a regular in the latter stages of the Champions League, Osimhen's experience in the competition is more limited. 

However, his performances in Napoli's recent Champions League campaign showed he can compete at that level.

Mbappe and Carlo Ancelotti failed to deliver UCL at PSG.
Mbappe and Carlo Ancelotti failed to deliver UCL at PSG. (Photo Credit: Imago)

And with Mbappe not delivering the big trophy in his seven years at the club, Osimhen could potentially become a club legend if he can help PSG end their painful wait.

Transfer Value

Osimhen's potential transfer fee, while substantial, would likely be less than what PSG could have commanded for Mbappé had he not run down his contract. 

Kylian Mbappe will wear the number 9 jersey next season at Real Madrid on a free transfer.
Kylian Mbappe will wear the number 9 jersey next season at Real Madrid on a free transfer. (Photo Credit: Real Madrid/X)
Napoli star Victor Osimhen will cost PSG 130 million euros.
Napoli star Victor Osimhen will cost PSG 130 million euros. || Imago

This could allow PSG to reinvest in other areas of the squad. But Napoli want 130 million euros for their man and PSG are reportedly willing to part with that.

The Verdict

While it's unfair to expect any player to directly replace Mbappé, Osimhen presents an exciting alternative for PSG. 

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His different playing style could allow the team to evolve tactically, potentially making them less predictable. 

Osimhen's aerial threat, physical presence, work rate, and improving goal-scoring record make him a formidable option.

Victor Osimhen helped Napoli to win their first Scudetto since 1990
Victor Osimhen helped Napoli to win their first Scudetto since 1990 | Credit: IMAGO
Kylian Mbappe departed PSG as their top scorer. (Photo by Glenn Gervot/Icon Sportswire)

However, PSG would need to adjust their tactics to accommodate Osimhen's strengths. The Nigerian's ability to link up play and create for others, while improving, is not at Mbappé's level. PSG might need to consider additional creative reinforcements to maximize Osimhen's potential.

In conclusion, while Victor Osimhen may not be a like-for-like replacement for Kylian Mbappé, he could be the superstar to lead a new-look PSG attack post-Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Neymar. 

Victor Osimhen and Antonio Conte in Napoli training
Victor Osimhen and Antonio Conte in Napoli training. (Photo Credit: Imago)

His signing would signal a shift in the team's playing style and could potentially usher in an exciting new era for the Parisian club. 

As PSG looks to move on from the Mbappé era, Osimhen represents a bold and intriguing option to lead their line.

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