Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has opened up about a memorable encounter he had with football legend Cristiano Ronaldo during Ronaldo’s time at Juventus in Serie A.
Speaking with media personality Daddy Freeze, Osimhen recalled how he seized the chance to meet Ronaldo after Napoli’s 1-0 victory over Juventus in 2021. Eager to get a photo with one of his football idols, Osimhen approached Ronaldo after the match.
“I said to him, ‘Chris, I would like to take a picture with you.’ He said, ‘Yeah, come to the dressing room,’” Osimhen recounted.
Still dressed in his match kit, Osimhen made his way to the Juventus dressing room. However, what he thought would be a quick photo opportunity turned into a long wait. The Nigerian striker shared that he had to wait for nearly an hour as Ronaldo was busy working out.
During the wait, Osimhen encountered legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who offered some assistance. “Buffon saw me, came to me, and asked what I wanted. He went to the gym and told me Ronaldo was working out, then told me to sit with him,” Osimhen said.
As time passed, Osimhen and Buffon conversed while Ronaldo continued his post-match workout. “We were just talking; it was almost 30 minutes, and he was not out yet. I waited for one hour, he was still working out.”
Eventually, Ronaldo appeared and warmly welcomed Osimhen. Not only did he agree to take a selfie, but he also encouraged Osimhen to take multiple photos. “He said, ‘Great game, just keep on going,’ and I shook his hand,” Osimhen added.
Reflecting on the experience, Osimhen spoke highly of Ronaldo’s character and work ethic. “Nobody is surprised seeing Ronaldo doing what he’s doing now, but he’s actually a great personality,” he said.
Osimhen’s admiration for Ronaldo’s dedication adds another layer to the Portuguese star’s well-known reputation for discipline and excellence on and off the pitch.
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