Koulibaly to Victor Osimhen – Choose Your Fate

Koulibaly to Victor Osimhen – Choose Your Fate
Credit: Iconsport

Ex-Napoli and Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly believes Victor Osimhen should follow his instincts when deciding his future.

Koulibaly, Osimhen's former teammate at Napoli, maintains the Nigeria international is an exceptional player and should not be swayed by external opinions.

In a recent interview with Corriere dello Sport, published in Tuesday’s paper edition, Koulibaly disclosed that he maintained occasional communication with Osimhen and affirmed his faith in the Super Eagles striker's abilities.

However, Koulibaly firmly believes that Osimhen has reached a stage in his career where he no longer requires external guidance. The defender advocates for Osimhen to make independent decisions and disregard any external voices in order to avoid future regrets.

Koulibaly's message to Osimhen is clear:

“We speak once in a while, and if he (Victor Osimhen) needs anything, he’ll call me,” the Senegal captain said.

“Victor is an important player, among the best in the world. Gennaro Gattuso helped him; Luciano Spalletti was a turning point for him; and now he needs nobody. He must feel free to choose without listening to anyone else. That’s the only way not to have regrets.”

As a rising star in the football world, Osimhen's performances have attracted attention from several top clubs, increasing speculation about a potential transfer.

As the transfer market buzzes with speculation, fans eagerly await Osimhen's decision.

Whether he opts to stay at Napoli or seek new challenges elsewhere, one thing is certain: Victor Osimhen's future will significantly impact his career trajectory.

Premier League Clubs are set for Battle as Victor Osimhen Eyes a move from Napoli

A highly anticipated meeting has been scheduled between Victor Osimhen's representatives and Chelsea, with the Super Eagles striker expressing a strong desire to make a move to the Premier League.

The Chelsea transfer news comes from renowned Italian journalist Sacha Tavolieri, who revealed that Osimhen's representatives have planned talks with various other Premier League clubs as well.

Therefore, Chelsea face stiff competition in pursuing Osimhen, as they are not the only club vying for his signature. Tavolieri disclosed that Manchester United and Liverpool have also expressed interest in the Nigerian striker.

The 24-year-old's remarkable performance saw him net 31 goals across all competitions, contributing significantly to Napoli's Serie A title win and ending the club's 33-year wait for domestic glory.

Koulibaly Interview

In the same interview with Corriere dello Sport, Koulibaly opened up about his departure from Chelsea and his return to Naples. The defender, who completed a €30 million transfer to Chelsea last summer, joined Saudi club Al-Hilal.

Koulibaly expressed his reasons for leaving Stamford Bridge: “I had no guarantees to get regular playing time [at Chelsea]. I was always professional, but I don’t like to sit on the bench doing nothing.

“I prefer a place where I am wanted, at the centre of the project, and can be an example for young players.

“The Premier League is fantastic, and there are great players. They expected the Koulibaly of Napoli, but I think my season was not so bad. I needed time, and in one year I couldn’t prove what I wanted because of the coach’s and club’s choices.

“I am happy with what I learned about my limits, my family, and my kids.

He also shared his anticipation for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, where he aims to represent Senegal and help his national team secure another victory, after winning their maiden continental crown last year.

“My time had come, and I had to make a decision. My teammates sent me so many messages; they are all sorry, but I have to prepare for the AFCON. It’s the most important thing for me. Senegal want to win again, but it won’t be easy,” he added.

Speaking about Napoli's future, Koulibaly expressed his hope that the team remains intact and continue their success.

“I am really happy for the Scudetto,” he said.

“I fought to win it for years, and everyone’s saying that I'd have won it too if I had stayed, but I believe in destiny. It was written that I had to leave to see Napoli win the Serie A title.

He further encouraged his former teammates not to depart the club, emphasising the historical significance they had achieved in Naples. Koulibaly firmly believes that Napoli have a bright future in both Italy and the Champions League.

“Napoli deserve a great future in Italy and in the Champions League. These players have made history, and if they win the title again, it will be a total feat,” he said regarding his old club.

“Everyone has his own history and life, but they’ve made history in Naples, and they can’t leave just like this. I hope they stay; I hope not everyone leaves.”

What next for Koulibaly?

A new chapter in Koulibaly's life is about to unfold as he embarks on his journey in the Saudi Arabian League. The Senegal defender recently shared his expectations and motivations for moving to Saudi Arabia with Al-Hilal.

Expressing his contentment with his decision, Koulibaly highlighted several reasons behind his move.

“I am happy with my decisions for many reasons,” he explained.

“I am Muslim, and I land in the right country. I am happy to play in a league that is evolving, and I hope I can help Saudi Arabia and Al-Hilal write history in sports. This contract is really important.”

He is eager to provide a better life for his family, including his parents and cousins. The financial stability afforded by his transfer from Chelsea to Saudi Arabia will enable him to support his loved ones.

“I can help my family live well—my parents and cousins—and sustain the social activities of my NGO in Senegal, Capitane du Coeur. We started with constructing a pediatric clinic in the village where my parents were born and married. It’s called Ngano.”

As Koulibaly prepares to embrace his new venture in the Saudi League, he looks forward to contributing both on and off the pitch. With a desire to make a positive impact, fulfil his aspirations, and support his family and community, Koulibaly is poised to begin this new chapter with determination and enthusiasm.

This article was most recently revised and updated 1 year ago

Rababe Koussaimi
Rababe Koussaimi, a 22-year-old journalist, is deeply passionate about the world of sports. She grew up in a footballing environment, supporting both Bayern Munich and Wydad Athletic Club. She began her English journalism career by hosting a podcast for the first English radio station in Morocco. Currently, the Moroccan journalist channels her enthusiasm into writing and conducting extensive research, creating insightful and engaging content for GoalBall Live readers.
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