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AFCON 2025
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Nigeria's Victor Osimhen has received the backing of a serial Premier League winner as the man to change Manchester United's fortunes
Former Manchester United full-back Rafael da Silva has endorsed Nigerian star Victor Osimhen as a more suitable leading man than Rasmus Hojlund.
With Manchester United’s goalscoring woes still lingering and questions surrounding Hojlund’s development, there has been speculation around a summer shake-up in the club’s frontline.
Rafael throws support behind Osimhen move
During an interview in Lyon, Rafael was asked about the striker situation at his former club, and if he would want to bring in any new faces this summer.
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The former Brazil international immediately replied, “Osimhen, I love him, he’s a very good player. I have to say I prefer him over Hojlund for sure. He’s 100%.”
While Rafael acknowledged that Hojlund still has potential, he was quick to express doubt over whether the Danish international has what it takes to lead Manchester United’s attack long-term.
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The three-time Premier League champion’s endorsement comes off the back of a sensational loan spell for Osimhen at Galatasaray during the 2024–25 season, where he racked up 36 goals and eight assists in just 44 appearances across all competitions.
Manchester United still linked to Osimhen
While Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has publicly stood by Hojlund, defending him in the wake of his underwhelming performance in the Europa League final, the pressure is on the Danish striker.
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Manchester United’s failure to qualify for the UEFA Champions League makes it harder to attract top-tier talent, yet the club is still reportedly keeping tabs on Osimhen as a potential summer signing.
The Super Eagles striker clinched the Turkish Super Lig Golden Boot with 25 goals in 29 league games, and his form has made him a hot commodity in Europe, and according to Rafael, the Super Eagles star is exactly what United need up front.
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Whether Osimhen would be willing to trade Champions League nights for a rebuilding project at Old Trafford remains uncertain, but Rafael has firmly planted his flag in the Nigerian’s corner.