Former Nigeria striker Obafemi Martins has stirred debate after a blunt message to compatriot Victor Osimhen, insisting the Napoli forward should not compare himself to Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking in a video clip that spread widely on social media, Martins addressed Osimhen directly and urged him to stay grounded despite his rapid rise in Europe.
Martins said Osimhen has achieved a lot, but stressed that reaching the level of Ronaldo requires more than a strong season or a run of goals. He added that Osimhen is still building his path and has to keep working to reach the very top.
The former Super Eagles forward was clear in his response when the comparison with Ronaldo was raised, telling Osimhen: “You are not Ronaldo.”
Martins also used the moment to highlight the gap between being a star striker and becoming a global icon, pointing out that Ronaldo’s career was built over many years of consistency, trophies and records.
Osimhen, who has become one of Nigeria’s leading names in Europe, remains a key figure for club and country, but Martins’ remarks served as a reminder that the biggest standards in modern football are set at a different level.
