Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has made headlines by being the only African player to secure a spot in Sports Pro’s Top 50 Most Marketable Athletes list for 2024, earning the 44th position and surpassing Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, who ranked 45th.
The rankings were determined by a combination of metrics including brand strength, total addressable market, and economics, with Osimhen achieving a higher aggregate marketability score of 64.15 compared to Haaland’s 64.02.
Osimhen’s performance in these metrics was impressive, as he recorded a brand strength score of 24.18, a total addressable market score of 26.94, and an economics score of 13.03. In contrast, Haaland’s scores were 22.8 in brand strength, 17.73 in total addressable market, and 23.49 in economics.
The results highlight Osimhen’s growing influence and appeal in the global sports market, particularly as he continues to make a name for himself in European football.
The top of the list is dominated by notable athletes, with American gymnast Simone Biles taking the number one spot.
Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. is the highest-ranked footballer at second place with an impressive score of 91.52 points, while eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi rounds out the top five with 89.67 points.
Other prominent footballers in the rankings include PSG’s Neymar, Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, and Barcelona’s rising star Lamine Yamal. Notably absent from the list is Portuguese icon Cristiano Ronaldo, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Osimhen’s high ranking is remarkable, especially considering that his market value has experienced a decline of €35 million in 2024.
Napoli recently adjusted his release clause from £113 million to £63 million after he failed to secure a permanent transfer during the summer window.
Despite these challenges, the 25-year-old has found his form at Turkish club Galatasaray, where he is currently on a season-long loan.
Osimhen has made a significant impact, recently breaking a club record by contributing to six goals in his first five league matches—a feat that had not been achieved since Bafetimbi Gomis in 2014.
His stellar performances in Istanbul have sparked interest from various clubs, with Turkish media outlet Sozcu reporting that Galatasaray is preparing a €50 million bid to sign him permanently in January. However, this offer falls short of his €75 million release clause, complicating potential negotiations.
Osimhen was previously linked with a move to Chelsea in August before ultimately choosing Galatasaray, where he has netted four goals and provided four assists in just seven appearances.
Additionally, Saudi Pro League side Al Ahly is reportedly keeping a close eye on Osimhen’s situation, although he has publicly expressed his commitment to Galatasaray, stating his desire to see out the season with the Turkish giants.
As Osimhen continues to shine on the pitch and improve his marketability, he remains a player to watch in both domestic and international football circles.
