Nigerian football legend, Austin “Jay Jay” Okocha, has shared his thoughts on the future of Super Eagles forwards Victor Boniface and Victor Osimhen, offering career advice at a youth development event in Lagos.
Speaking at the Bundesliga Common Ground event held at the Low Cost Housing Estate Grassroots Football Facility in Meiran on Saturday, Okocha addressed the uncertainty surrounding the players’ next steps as they weigh their options in the transfer market.
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The Bundesliga Common Ground initiative supported by Germany’s top-flight league which aims to promote grassroots football development in Nigeria, emphasizing structured training, discipline, and community engagement.
Okocha, who made a name for himself in the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt, served as both a mentor and motivator at the event.
In an exclusive chat with Sports247, Okocha offered guidance to Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface, whose second season was hampered by injury and managerial changes, including the recent exit of coach Xabi Alonso and the appointment of Erik ten Hag.
“Of course, his second season was not as successful as his first, but we can’t forget the injury he had. We all know it takes time to come back from a serious injury,” Okocha noted.
“If he stays at Bayer Leverkusen, he must fight for his place and impress the new manager. But if he decides to leave, we hope it’s to a club that’s a better fit for his career.”
Turning to Victor Osimhen whose future at Napoli remains the subject of intense speculation Okocha emphasized that the final decision must lie with the player.
“The decision should be his. Whether it goes well or not, he must own it,” he said.
“I don’t believe in deciding someone’s future. He should choose what’s best for him and his family.”
Okocha wished both players the best, urging them to approach their decisions with maturity and a long-term view of their careers.
As a respected figure in Nigerian football, Okocha’s opinions continue to influence discussions around the Super Eagles and their stars’ journeys on the global stage.
