John Obi Mikel hopes "there is an opportunity available" for himself. Victor Osimhen at Arsenal this summer, suggesting Manchester United might still secure the Nigerian forward even without offering him European football for the upcoming season.
Osimhen is poised to make his comeback Napoli Following a successful loan stint at Galatasaray in Turkey, during which he netted 37 goals in 41 matches.
Despite being just 26 years old, he does not form part of Antonio Conte’s strategy. Nonetheless, this situation stems from the strained relationship between the Italian title holders and their athlete. collapsing amid a chaotic summer transfer period last year Galatasaray wants to retain his services in Istanbul for an additional year, whereas Al-Hilal is keen on potentially moving him to Saudi Arabia.
However, Osimhen’s objective remains focused on making a transition to the Premier League, as stated by his compatriot Mikel.
The ex-Chelsea midfield player was eager to witness Osimhen join Stamford Bridge this summer. following a relocation that crumbled at the final moment last year .
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However, Liam Delap’s upcoming move to west London from Ipswich Town is imminent. seems to have concluded their involvement, leaving the England Under-21 international poised to vie with Nicolas Jackson for a starting position next season.
Regretting Chelsea’s lost chance to sign someone ready for immediate impact, Mikel thinks there are only two feasible choices left with Arsenal and United. He strongly feels that Ruben Amorim’s team requires an improvement over Rasmus Hojland.
'I am hopeful he will still secure a Premier League move this summer,' Mikel said. Axofa .
'I believe clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United still require a forward. In my opinion, Rasmus Hojlund isn't quite right for Manchester United. While he puts in effort and hustles, he won't be the one scoring goals, securing spots in the top four, or bringing home titles. Therefore, I feel Manchester United could end up being his next team.'
'I prefer not to have him play in Saudi Arabia at this moment as he still has plenty to contribute in Europe. It would be unfortunate for him to move there. Perhaps his best choices could be Arsenal, Manchester United, Juventus, and also Paris Saint-Germain [remain an option]. We'll just have to wait and see.'
Osimhen might forego a season at Manchester United for the chance to play in Europe.
Manchester United's inability to secure a spot in European competitions for the upcoming season will likely lead to some financial impacts, yet it seems not to have diminished their appeal significantly up until now. with Matheus Cunha arriving and Bryan Mbeumo ready to link up with them ahead of Newcastle United and Arsenal.
Osimhen might present a separate scenario after impressing on the European scene with Napoli in past seasons. Despite potentially losing out due to their exclusion from both the Champions League and Europa League, Mikel feels there’s an opportunity for his compatriot to 'dedicate' a campaign toward revitalizing United’s fortunes.
“I believe so,” Mikel responded when questioned about whether the absence of European football might hinder Manchester United’s prospects of securing Osimhen. “Given his status as the leading striker and key player, I definitely think that would make a difference.”
Perhaps he would respond, "I'll dedicate this season." Realizing he’s part of a team bolstered by several new additions Ruben Amorim has brought in—the players he desires—it could be something Victor might ponder. Perhaps he’d contemplate giving up an entire season for it.
'We need to wait and observe. However, I believe our aim is to see him play in the Champions League, so perhaps Arsenal could be his next stop. There might be an opportunity waiting for Victor at Arsenal.'
'I've had several discussions with him. While I won't go into specifics, he is focused on moving to one of the leading European leagues, where he aims to demonstrate his skills and vie for victory in the Champions League.'
Mikel responds to Chelsea acquiring Delap instead of Osimhen
Mikel doesn’t hide the fact he was desperate to see his old side bring in Osimhen, a player he believes would provide an instant lift.
'Mikel stated that everyone was aware of both the player he hoped would join the football club and the one the supporters were eager to see arrive at the football club.'
'It’s a pity he didn’t join Chelsea, the team he cheered for during his childhood, but they opted to head in another direction [by signing Delap], which is understandable. I hope things work well for him at his new club.'
'However, I wished we had someone join us ready to take off immediately, someone experienced in performing well in crucial matches and major tournaments. Nonetheless, we must back Delap and ensure he succeeds.'
John Obi Mikel spoke before the impending FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Tune in to watch all 63 matches live. DAZN for free.
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