‘He is proper’ — Ola Aina breaks down why every team needs a ‘dirty’ Victor Osimhen

In the wake of the heated debate surrounding Victor Osimhen’s role in the Super Eagles' AFCON 2025 campaign, teammate Ola Aina has stepped up to provide a masterclass in what makes the former African King tick.

While critics like Sunday Oliseh have questioned the striker's temperament, Aina, who has shared a dressing room with Osimhen for years, says that intensity on the pitch is exactly what makes him world-class. 

In a viral video interview with Goal, the Nottingham Forest star gave a glowing, unfiltered assessment of why Osimhen is the ultimate "Proper Number 9."

For Aina, Osimhen isn't just about the goals; he’s about the "dirty work" that defenders hate and teammates love.

“You just need someone like that in your team. You need Victor to mash someone up today? He’ll mash someone up. You need him to be dirty, he’ll get you that, bro,” Aina said with a grin.

The defender emphasised that Osimhen’s willingness to get physical and rattle opponents is a tactical weapon that creates space for everyone else. It’s a direct rebuttal to those who view the striker's aggression as a liability.

One of the most frustrating things for a defender is a striker who never stops running. Aina highlighted Osimhen’s relentless work rate, particularly his habit of chasing down balls that most players would give up on.

“Bro, he knows how to chase a ball, you know. You know them lost-hope balls? Do you need him to do that? Cool,” Aina added, noting that this "never-say-die" attitude is what sets the Galatasaray man apart.

Aina’s final verdict was simple: Osimhen is authentic. Amidst the noise regarding team chemistry, Aina insists that the passion fans see on the pitch comes from a place of genuine dedication to the badge.

“He's a number 9. He's a number nine. He wears his heart on his sleeve, he works hard, like, bro, he's proper.”

Aina's comments come at a crucial time. With the Nigerian football community divided over the "fallout" from AFCON 2025 and the bronze medal finish, having a senior figure like Aina publicly back Osimhen's "dirty" and "proper" style is a major boost for the striker.

It sends a clear message: inside the Super Eagles camp, Osimhen’s fire isn't seen as "toxic", it's seen as the engine that drives the team forward.