Gift Orban Opens Up on Lyon Exit and New Start at Hoffenheim
Nigerian striker Gift Orban says he didn’t feel valued in France, and is now focused on scoring goals in Germany. SportsRation reports.
Nigeria international Gift Emmanuel Orban has revealed he left Olympique Lyonnais because he didn’t feel appreciated during his short stay at the French club.
The 22-year-old forward joined Lyon from Belgian side KAA Gent in January 2024 for €15 million, but his time in France was disappointing. Orban struggled for playing time and confidence, scoring only five goals in 21 matches.
Speaking to Hoffenheim’s official website, Orban explained what went wrong at Lyon.
“I didn’t have many opportunities [at Lyon], and I also had very strong competitors. The coach preferred Alexandre Lacazette, who is the team captain and a club legend. I wanted to play more, so I moved on,” he said.
Fresh Start at Hoffenheim
Orban joined TSG 1899 Hoffenheim in January 2025 for €10 million and has already made an impact, scoring four goals in 12 appearances for the Bundesliga club.
He says he feels trusted in Germany
