Coach reveals history maker Olatunji is a Man Utd fan, idolises Ronaldo, nicknamed after ex-Arsenal striker

Victor Olatunji, the Nigerian forward who made history in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, is known to be a Manchester United fan and looks up to Ronaldo as his idol.

Olatunji, captured the spotlight on Wednesday night, making history as he scored and assisted in his UEFA Champions League debut against Salzburg. 

Sparta Prague, on Wednesday night, secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Salzburg at epet Arena.

Olatunji struck in the 42nd minute, expertly slotting the ball past Salzburg goalkeeper Blaswich after a well-placed lofted pass from Filip Panák. 

Just 18 minutes later, he showcased his playmaking skills, setting up Qazim Laci for Sparta’s third goal, solidifying his impact on the match.

His performance made him the first Nigerian player to score and assist on his Champions League debut, a milestone that surprised many fans back home who were previously unaware of his potential. 

However, Bello A. Lasoro, Olatunji's grassroots coach, is not surprised with his performance on the global stage. 

Lasoro highlighted Olatunji's determination and ability to make a difference even as a young player.

"Olu is a player with zeal to deliver, he always want make a difference in match he play as far as he got into the squad," Lasoro told allnigeriasoccer.com.

"So, it wasn't a surprise because he will always score brace on a good day and with a tough opponent he delivered his piece."

Lasora recalled how he would build the team's strategy around Olatunji, a natural box striker. 

"We always build the team for him to score as he is a box striker. I can say his best is yet to come," he added.

Lasora also revealed that Olatunji is a Manchester United fan who models his game after Cristiano Ronaldo.

"He is a fan of Manchester United, so he easily pick on Ronaldo," he revealed.

He also mentioned that his teammates nicknamed him Yaya Sanogo due to the similarities between the two strikers.

"But his Academy teammates saw him more like Yaya Sanogo, the former Arsenal striker, so his team mate nicknamed him Sanogo."

With his historic debut, Olatunji not only made a name for himself on the European stage but also raised expectations for a promising career ahead.

Adeyemi Adewale

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