Napoli defender Juan Jesus has stated that Danish striker Rasmus Højlund is a better striker than Victor Osimhen, Afrik-Foot reports.
Højlund has been brilliant for Napoli since joining from Manchester United on a season-long loan deal. The 23-year-old striker has contributed nine goals and two assists in 24 appearances, making him one of the joint-second highest goalscorers in the league this season.
His combination of grit, pace, and clinical finishing has been a deadly weapon for coach Antonio Conte’s side, who currently sit third in Serie A with ten games remaining.
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In a recent interview, Jesus, who currently plays alongside Højlund, shared his belief that the Dane is better than Osimhen. The Brazilian defender also played with Osimhen during the Super Eagles star’s tenure at Napoli, when the Nigerian was widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world.
While Jesus acknowledges that Osimhen is a top-tier player, he ultimately ranked him below Højlund.
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”They have different characteristics and I don’t like comparisons. They are both very strong strikers; you struggle even in training because they are so quick,” Jesus said.
”Rasmus is more powerful and better at holding up the ball, while Victor kills you in space. I would give half the shirt to both of them. But right now, Rasmus is the one who helps us, so I have to choose Rasmus. I always wish Victor well; he is like a brother to me and one of the best strikers in Europe.”
Is Rasmus Højlund Actually Better Than Victor Osimhen?
In a broader sense, Victor Osimhen remains the more accomplished player. The Super Eagles star has built a solid reputation in Europe over the last five seasons, leading two different teams, Napoli and Galatasaray, to league titles.
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The Danish striker, by contrast, is still establishing his impact on the European stage. Although Manchester United paid over €77 million for his services three years ago, he struggled to find consistency at Old Trafford.
While he has been excellent for Napoli, he has yet to leave a mark as significant as the one Osimhen left during his time in Naples.
Jesus’ comments likely stem from the fact that Højlund is his current teammate. It is probable that if neither player were at Napoli, the Brazilian would hold a different opinion.
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