Money or trophies: Jay-Jay Okocha offers candid advice amid Victor Osimhen’s transfer dilemma
Legendary Nigerian playmaker Austin Jay-Jay Okocha has weighed in on the ongoing transfer saga involving Napoli’s star striker Victor Osimhen, offering a candid perspective on the financial aspects of professional football.
Osimhen found himself at the centre of transfer drama on deadline day, with offers from Chelsea and Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli. Amid the uncertainty surrounding his future, Okocha’s comments have resonated with many, shedding light on the financial considerations that often influence a player’s career decisions.
Okocha, who enjoyed a stellar career across Europe before retiring in 2008, revealed that his primary motivation for playing football was to uplift his life and that of his family. He emphasised that money was his main focus, rather than trophies, which he regarded as a bonus.
Speaking in Igbo, the former Super Eagles captain stated (translated), “I learnt early enough that trophies do not pay school fees. Money pays school fees. So it is the money I was after because I needed to better my community. I needed to change my life and that of my family. I came from a poor background. But if the trophy comes while playing for the money, it is a bonus.”
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Okocha’s words come at a crucial time for Osimhen, who had to decide between remaining in Europe or moving to the Middle East for a lucrative contract. The Nigerian forward reportedly turned down a contract offer from Chelsea worth €4 million per season, plus an additional €4 million in bonuses.
Despite the enticing offer, Osimhen did not reach an agreement with Al Ahli, even though the Saudi club’s financial package dwarfed Chelsea’s offer. Al Ahli reportedly offered Osimhen a staggering £33.6 million (€40 million) per season, tax-free, which would have seen him earn £646,154 per week.
As the Saudi transfer window remains open until September 2, Osimhen’s future is still undecided. Should he stay at Napoli, where his relationship with the club has reportedly soured, he could face being sidelined until the January transfer window.
