Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has revealed that one of his major ambitions after retiring from professional football is to return to school and earn a university degree.
The Nigerian striker made the disclosure in an interview that recently resurfaced online, explaining that while football has transformed his life and career, he still hopes to complete his formal education.
Reflecting on his journey from humble beginnings to international stardom, Osimhen said many of the lessons that shaped his character came through life experiences rather than the classroom. Nevertheless, he remains committed to achieving his academic goals.
“I would love to go back to school and earn a degree,” he said, noting that a football career is relatively short and that preparing for life after retirement is an important responsibility for every athlete.
According to the 2023 African Footballer of the Year, pursuing higher education is not only a personal aspiration but also an opportunity to inspire young people whose studies may have been interrupted by financial challenges or difficult life circumstances.
He stressed that leaving school because of hardship should never be viewed as the end of an educational journey, encouraging young people to keep their academic ambitions alive regardless of setbacks.
Born in Edo State and raised in Lagos, Osimhen rose from modest beginnings to become one of Africa’s most celebrated footballers. His breakthrough came at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where he emerged as the tournament’s top scorer and helped Nigeria claim the title.
His performances opened doors to professional opportunities in Europe, with spells in Germany, Belgium and France before his move to SSC Napoli in 2020. There, he played a pivotal role in ending the club’s 33-year wait for a Serie A title. He currently plays for Galatasaray.
Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Osimhen has consistently encouraged young athletes to balance sporting ambitions with education. During a visit earlier this year to Beyond Limits Football Academy in Ogun State, he advised aspiring footballers not to neglect their studies, reminding them that athletic careers eventually come to an end.
His remarks highlight the importance of long-term planning beyond sports and reinforce the message that education remains a valuable tool for personal growth and future opportunities.
For Osimhen, success is not defined solely by trophies and accolades. It also includes fulfilling personal goals that extend beyond football—among them, returning to the classroom and earning the degree he has long desired.
Beyond Football: Osimhen Eyes University Degree After Retirement
