…Nigerian striker credits Chelsea legend for inspiring his rise as he tops Champions League scoring chart
Galatasaray’s in-form striker Victor Osimhen has opened up about the deep influence of Chelsea and Ivory Coast legend Didier Drogba, revealing how the former African football icon shaped his style, mindset, and career ambition.
Osimhen, who has never hidden his admiration for Drogba, once again paid glowing tribute to his idol after inspiring Galatasaray to a stunning 3–0 victory over Ajax in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night. The Nigerian international netted all three goals, including two penalties, to become the competition’s top scorer this season.
Speaking to UEFA’s official website after the match, the 26-year-old forward said Drogba’s example remains a major source of motivation in his football journey.
“I have to be grateful for Didier Drogba because for all I am now, I attribute some of my success to him,” Osimhen said. “He was the one I watched closely — his style, his movement, his mentality. I tried to add some of those qualities that made him one of the most sought-after strikers in the world during his time.”
Just like Drogba in his prime, Osimhen has built a reputation for power, precision, and relentless hunger for goals. His combination of pace and intelligence has made him the heartbeat of Galatasaray’s attack since his arrival in Turkey.
His latest hat-trick not only secured Galatasaray’s place in contention for the knockout rounds but also placed him above Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Harry Kane in the 2025/26 UEFA Champions League scoring chart, with six goals.
In doing so, Osimhen also etched his name in history as Nigeria’s all-time top scorer in European competitions, surpassing former Inter Milan and Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins with 25 goals.
Beyond the numbers, Osimhen’s story is one of perseverance and passion, from selling sachet water on the streets of Lagos to becoming one of Europe’s most feared finishers. For him, Drogba’s influence was more than technical; it was inspirational.
“Watching Drogba taught me that football is not just about scoring goals, but about leadership, character, and impact,” Osimhen added. “That’s what I try to bring to every game.”
As Galatasaray prepare to face Kocaelispor in the Turkish Super Lig this weekend, the Nigerian talisman continues to embody the legacy of the man he idolised — not just by scoring goals, but by carrying the torch of African excellence on the global stage.