Gabriel Osho has made history as the first Nigerian player to feature for AJ Auxerre in the French Ligue 1, following in the footsteps of the legendary defender Taribo West.
Osho's journey to Auxerre began this summer with a free transfer from Luton Town, where he played a key role in their promotion to the Premier League, albeit followed by relegation at the end of the season.
In Auxerre's first league match against OGC Nice, Osho, a 26-year-old centre-back, was included in the starting lineup, marking a significant moment in his career. While facing Nice, who were without Terem Moffi due to injury, Nigerian youngster Victor Orakpo was included on the substitute bench. Osho's debut match ended in victory for AJ Auxerre, securing a 2-1 win over OGC Nice.
Osho's debut at Stade de l’Abbe-Deschamps not only marked a personal milestone but also aligned him with Taribo West as the only Nigerian players in Auxerre's history. As Osho embarks on his journey with Auxerre, he will look to follow in the impactful footsteps of West, who played a crucial role in Auxerre's historical achievements, including winning the league title in the 1995-96 season and the national cup, achieving the prestigious double.
In the following season, Auxerre graced the UEFA Champions League stage, where Taribo West showcased his prowess in seven appearances before the club faced elimination in the quarter-finals by eventual champions Borussia Dortmund.
West's departure from Auxerre saw him join Inter Milan in a £10.2 million deal, establishing him as the most expensive Nigerian defender in history. This record remained unbroken for 25 years until Ajax surpassed it by paying Rangers €26.5 million to secure the services of Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey, setting a new milestone in Nigerian football history.
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