In an engaging interview, former Nigeria striker Victor Obinna Nsofor reminisces fondly about his time at West Ham United and expresses his enduring affection for the club and its supporters, despite having spent just one season there. He shares a humorous encounter at a beach in Miami with a fan who recognized him, underscoring how deeply his brief tenure at the club has resonated with the fans. Despite any initial skepticism surrounding his arrival, Obinna viewed his transfer as a major opportunity to showcase his abilities in the English Premier League. He recalls the excitement and pride his family felt as he joined a club he had long admired while growing up watching football in Nigeria.
Obinna highlights a standout moment from his time at West Ham—a memorable match against Manchester United, where he notched four assists. This game was particularly special for him as it allowed his mother and sister to witness him perform on an iconic stage, marking a significant milestone in his career. The post-match accolades from his teammates and the heartfelt pride expressed by his family amplified the joy of that performance. He also reminisces about scoring a hat-trick against Nottingham Forest, with his teammates celebrating his accomplishment and even requesting his signature somersault celebration. For Obinna, these experiences solidified his belief in his capabilities and the strong bond he shared with his fellow players.
Reflecting on his overall time at the club, Obinna expressed a feeling of belonging, likening the atmosphere to his home country, Nigeria. The unwavering support from the fans left a lasting impression on him, prompting him to maintain his connection with the club through social media. Even after relegation at the end of the season and the missed opportunity to extend his contract, West Ham remains a tender memory for the player, illustrating both the personal and professional impact the club had on his life. His deep affinity for the team is evident, and he expresses a lingering desire to have contributed further to their journey.
Obinna also emphasizes the strong camaraderie he shared with his teammates, particularly Carlton Cole, whom he considers a ‘big brother.’ Their on-field synergy was celebrated by their manager, Avram Grant, highlighting their ability to complement each other amid considerable competition for striking positions at the club. The friendship fostered during this time not only enriched his experience at West Ham, but it also helped him mature as a player. This bond remains intact, as he continues to stay in touch with Cole, a testament to how shared experiences can forge lifelong connections.
Drawing parallels to his time at Inter Milan, Obinna shares how influential coach José Mourinho was in shaping his professional outlook. He recalls Mourinho’s unique ability to motivate players, pushing them to excel while also managing their relations in an individualistic manner. The example set by seasoned professionals like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Javier Zanetti inspired him to elevate his own standards as a player. Obinna appreciates the transformative impact of his time under Mourinho, considering him the best manager he has played for. The valuable lessons learned during that spell continue to inspire his ambitions as he delves into coaching.
Obinna concludes the interview with a poignant recollection of a life-changing car accident that occurred in October 2007. While returning from training with Chievo, he narrowly escaped a serious fate, which profoundly strengthened his spiritual beliefs. He expresses gratitude for his survival and reflects on the divine intervention he feels saved him that day. The experience, a surreal reminder of the fragility of life, has instilled a deep sense of thankfulness in Obinna, appreciating the simple fact that he is alive and continues to pursue his passions in football and coaching. His journey reflects resilience, growth, and an unwavering love for the beautiful game.
