Nigerian international Gift Orban has officially joined German Bundesliga side TSG Hoffenheim from Olympique Lyonnais in a deal that runs until 2029. The 22-year-old striker made the switch after a challenging spell in France, aiming to reignite his once-promising career.
At Lyon, Orban struggled to replicate the sensational form he displayed at Belgian side KAA Gent. He managed just five goals in 21 appearances over one-and-a-half seasons. This was a stark contrast to his incredible record of 32 goals in 40 games for Gent, which initially earned him the move to France.
Related article: Nigerian Striker Orban’s High Salary Gambit to Revive Olympique Lyonnais
Former Super Eagles defender Daniel Olusola Shittu believes Orban’s decision to leave Lyon is a step in the right direction. According to Shittu, the French league was not suited to Orban’s style of play, and Hoffenheim offers the perfect environment for him to rediscover his form.
“Look, for me, he (Orban) or his camp made the right decision to leave France, and most importantly, to join a top team in Germany. He needed this move to get his career back on track,” Shittu shared in an exclusive interview with Kick Off Nigeria.
“French league football is slower and extremely physical. It doesn’t suit his strengths. He thrives in leagues with free-flowing, fast-paced football, and Hoffenheim is built for this style. His speed and intelligence will shine here,” Shittu added.
Can Orban Solve Hoffenheim’s Goal-Scoring Crisis?
Hoffenheim are enduring a tough Bundesliga campaign, sitting 14th in the 18-team table with just 14 points from 15 games. Scoring has been a major issue for the team, with only 20 goals to their name this season. Shittu is confident that Orban’s arrival could turn things around.
“The team has struggled to score, and signing Orban clearly shows their intent to fix that problem. I believe Gift will walk straight into the starting lineup and make an immediate impact,” said Shittu, who previously played for Queens Park Rangers, Watford, Millwall, and Bolton Wanderers.
“Hoffenheim didn’t sign him based on his stint at Lyon—they were impressed with his performances at Gent. It’s clear they’ve been monitoring him for a while and are convinced he’s the player they need.”
