Victor Osimhen has never been one to dilute his personality, and that same unapologetic edge continues to define both his career and public image. The Super Eagles striker, widely admired for his intensity on the pitch, has often drawn criticism for his strong-willed nature — but he sees it very differently.

In the documentary Victor Osimhen: The Untold Story, Osimhen opens up about the mindset behind his approach, making it clear that what البعض interpret as stubbornness is, in his view, a necessary form of self-protection.

Rather than distancing himself from the label, Osimhen embraces it, explaining that his journey through football has exposed him to the harsh realities of the industry. He suggests that staying firm and putting himself first has been key to avoiding being taken advantage of.

He explained that prioritising himself is non-negotiable because he built his career from the ground up. In his words, being “stubborn” is not a flaw but a strength — a way of ensuring no one can exploit his success or take control of his path.

The 27-year-old also reflected on the people he has encountered throughout his career, hinting at past relationships that ended in disappointment. According to him, loyalty was not always reciprocated, and walking away became necessary once he recognised patterns of manipulation.

Osimhen went on to suggest that refusing to conform has occasionally made him a target, with negative narratives surfacing when he chooses to stand his ground. However, he remains unfazed, insisting that such attempts to damage his reputation have ultimately failed.

For Osimhen, the philosophy is simple: in a football world where players can easily be treated as commodities, maintaining control of his identity and decisions is essential. His so-called stubbornness, he believes, is not just about protecting his career — it’s about preserving who he is at his core.

Vinícius Júnior has been ranked only third among Brazil’s most valuable players, according to a latest valuation model—despite his global status and success with Real Madrid C.F..

The winger, who has already won multiple UEFA Champions League titles and finished runner-up for the 2024 Ballon d’Or behind Rodri, surprisingly trails two younger stars in the rankings.

Top spot is taken by Estevão Willian, whose rapid rise since joining Chelsea F.C. has seen his value soar. The 18-year-old has made an immediate impact across competitions, underlining his reputation as one of Brazil’s brightest young talents.

Second place goes to another Chelsea player, João Pedro, who has enjoyed a prolific campaign since his move from Brighton & Hove Albion F.C.. His consistent goal return in the Premier League has significantly boosted his market value, placing him just ahead of Vinícius.

Behind the top three, Endrick—another Real Madrid prospect—continues to command a high valuation despite still developing, while Savinho of Manchester City F.C. ranks fifth.

Vitor Roque sits sixth following a mixed spell in Europe before returning to Brazil with Palmeiras.

Further down the list, Gabriel Martinelli represents Arsenal F.C. in seventh, while Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos and Raphinha of FC Barcelona also feature.

Rounding out the top ten is Martinelli’s Arsenal teammate Gabriel Magalhães.

Notably absent from the rankings are several high-profile names, including Rodrygo, Bruno Guimarães and Matheus Cunha—highlighting just how competitive the current generation of Brazilian talent has become.

Mikel Arteta has admitted Arsenal F.C.’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City F.C. continues to weigh heavily on him, describing the loss as something that will linger for years.

Arsenal’s hopes of a historic quadruple were ended at Wembley, where a decisive second-half display from City—led by Nico O’Reilly—secured the trophy. Despite their strong domestic form, Arteta’s side were unable to match City’s clinical edge on the big stage.

Reflecting on the defeat, Arteta made it clear the emotional impact has not faded. He explained that, in the immediate aftermath, the feeling is deeply uncomfortable and something that needs to be processed quickly, but also used as fuel for improvement. At the same time, he acknowledged that part of that pain should remain, serving as a long-term reminder of what it takes to win major finals.

He suggested that such experiences are essential in shaping a team’s mentality, adding that the memory of losing at Wembley must become a driving force in the weeks, months and even years ahead.

Arsenal now turn their focus back to their domestic and European ambitions, though fitness concerns remain a challenge. Declan Rice is not yet at full fitness, while Noni Madueke and Piero Hincapié are unavailable for the upcoming FA Cup clash with Southampton F.C..

There is, however, some encouragement with the possible return of Martin Ødegaard and Jurriën Timber as Arsenal look to regain momentum.

Arteta also responded to criticism surrounding the number of players who withdrew from international duty, acknowledging the narrative but suggesting it should be viewed in context. He pointed out that similar attention is not always given when players return injured from international matches, calling for a more balanced perspective.

With the FA Cup quarter-finals next on the agenda, Arsenal have an immediate opportunity to respond. Beyond that, their focus will shift to the UEFA Champions League, where a challenging tie against Sporting CP awaits in Lisbon.