Midtjylland striker Stanley Iheanacho has revealed that Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen is the player he looks up to the most, crediting the Galatasaray forward for inspiring his development as he continues his impressive preseason form.
The young Nigerian forward has enjoyed a flying start to the 2026/27 campaign, finding the net in each of Midtjylland’s first three preseason matches against Lillestrøm, Malmö and Silkeborg. His goalscoring exploits have strengthened his case for a regular starting spot ahead of the new Danish Superliga season.
Speaking to Midtjylland’s official media, Iheanacho admitted that Osimhen’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of the world’s top strikers has made him the perfect role model.
“Yes, I look up to Victor Osimhen. He is a fantastic guy, a fighter who has had to fight his way out of poverty.
“His warrior mentality is inspiring, and when he plays, he gives everything. He is so hungry to score goals. I can see a lot of things from him in myself,” Iheanacho said.
The 20-year-old also disclosed that he closely studies Osimhen’s matches and interviews in a bid to improve his own game, while hoping to one day line up alongside the Super Eagles star.
“I watch his clips and all the interviews he gives. I try to learn from him, and my dream is to play with him one day,” he added.
Iheanacho returned to Midtjylland this summer after an impressive loan spell with Portuguese side CD Mafra, where he scored 14 goals in Liga 3 to earn another opportunity with the Danish club. He has carried that confidence into preseason, scoring in all three of the club’s warm-up fixtures.
Meanwhile, Osimhen continues to be one of the biggest inspirations for Nigeria’s next generation of strikers. The Galatasaray forward has established himself as one of the world’s elite centre-forwards through his relentless work ethic, explosive pace and clinical finishing, qualities that have made him a role model for many young Nigerian attackers.
With confidence high and goals flowing, Iheanacho will be hoping to maintain his rich vein of form when the new season begins as he continues his quest to follow in the footsteps of the Super Eagles’ prolific frontman.
