Osimhen Plans to Go Back to School After Football Career

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has said he wants to return to school to get a university degree, even with his success in professional football.

In an interview with Instablog that surfaced again on Monday, Osimhen talked about education, life lessons, and the need to prepare for life after football.

Osimhen noted that while he has learned many important lessons outside school, he still hopes to finish his formal education.

"As an adult, not everything I learned in school. There are some kinds of life lessons you encounter through life’s journey," he said.

The 2023 African Footballer of the Year understands that football has changed his life, but he knows that a playing career does not last forever.

"So for me, it will be an amazing thing to also try to get a degree, which I’m still considering because football is not something you will play for so long, probably 20 or 25 years, and then you’re done," he added.

Osimhen wants to motivate young people who might have quit school due to financial issues or other problems.

He aims to show that dropping out does not mean giving up on education.

"For me, it’s to set a standard, to set an example to the younger generation that even though you dropped out due to some kind of challenges, you can always go back to school because the school is always there," he explained.

His comments have struck a chord with many Nigerians. Osimhen's own rise to football fame came from humble beginnings and sacrifices before he became one of Europe’s top strikers.

Born in Edo State, Osimhen first became known internationally when he was the top scorer at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, helping Nigeria win the title.

He later played for VfL Wolfsburg in Germany, Belgian club Charleroi, and French side Lille before making a record transfer to Napoli in Italy in 2020.

While in Italy, he became one of the most wanted forwards, winning the Serie A Golden Boot and leading Napoli to their first league title in 33 years. He then joined Turkish champions Galatasaray, where he keeps scoring goals.

Besides his success on the field, Osimhen has often talked about the importance of education for young footballers.

In February 2026, the Super Eagles vice-captain told players at Beyond Limits Football Academy in Ikenne, Ogun State, not to ignore their education while chasing football careers.

During his visit, he donated ₦10 million to help the academy grow and urged the players to get ready for life after football.

He reminded the young talents that while talent can open doors, education is a key tool that will help them find opportunities after retiring from football.