Former Nigerian international Emmanuel Amuneke has stated that Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has a substantial journey ahead to reach the level of the late Super Eagles forward, Rashidi Yekini.
Yekini remains Nigeria’s top international scorer with an impressive record of 37 goals, a record he held for over two decades. Osimhen currently shares the position of the joint-third highest scorer in the history of the Super Eagles with Yakubu Aiyegbeni, both having netted 21 goals.
In a conversation with UK-based reporter Osasu Obayiuwana, Amuneke emphasised that Yekini’s legacy is unparalleled. He remarked, “Rashidi Yekini’s name is heavy. Yekini is Yekini. I don’t think anybody can look like Yekini.”
Acknowledging the Napoli striker’s potential, Amuneke noted, “But I can tell you, Osasu, that Yekini, may his soul rest in peace, will be happy that someone like him, in terms of hunger and attitude, is making Nigerians proud. But Osimhen has a long way to go. Let him just be calm, let him be focused, let him continue to do his part.”
Obayiuwana added that Osimhen himself admitted that Yekini is the most influential and biggest striker that the Super Eagles have ever had. Osimhen expressed his admiration, stating, “He inspired us to be the goal machine that he has been,” the reigning African Footballer of the Year said. Yekini is the pacesetter and what he has done for the Super Eagles is unimaginable. I hope that I can reach there.”