Osimhen, Chukwueze are Messiahs of Declining Nigerian Football – Amunike

Nigeria has won the CAF young player of the year award more times than any other country, and this year two strong contenders have been named in the final three-man shortlist alongside last Year’s winner, but besides making the list the significance for Nigeria is immense says former U17 national head Coach Emmanuel Amunike.

Osimhen won the award back in 2015 as a 17 year-old as his Goals secured Nigeria a fifth World Cup title at the U17s and his Coach during the tournament, Amunike says there’s reason to celebrate the player’s rise and consistency.

The Forward finished the tournament as top goalscorer and picked up the silver ball.

Chukwueze also picked up honors, the Bronze ball and Amunike described both their developments as a blessing for Nigerian football that appeared to be on the decline.

“After our generation, it seemed like football was going down, but Today we’re seeing several players coming up,” Amunike told www.brila.net.

“I was privileged to Coach them in the U17s and not only are these players doing great in the Super Eagles, but they are also very prominent at their club sides.It’ll certainly be a thing of joy to see both win, but we know only one person will and I want it to come to Nigeria, it’s been a while.”

The last time a Nigerian won the award was in 2016, when Alex Iwobi, then at Arsenal picked up a third consecutive gong after Asisat Oshoala (2014) and Osimhen (2015).

Last season Osimhen finished with 13 goals for Charleroi before sealing a €12m move to Lille OSC where he has continued his great form.

He has netted 13 goals in 24 appearances across all competitions, while Chukwueze who experienced a breakthrough year with Villarreal last term is one of the most exciting young players in La Liga.

This season he has made 17 league appearances and scored 3 goals.

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