GIFT ORBAN: The Remarkable Rise of a Wonderkid From Nowhere

Gift Orban: A Football Prodigy's Journey from Nigeria to Lyon Glory

In this Article:

• Explore the incredible journey of Gift Orban, a Nigerian footballer who went from contemplating quitting to becoming a sensation in European football.
  
  
• Follow his path from trials in Togo to catching the eye of scouts, overcoming setbacks in Norway, and ultimately making history as the first Nigerian to play for Lyon in just over two years.
  
  
• Discover the lessons of perseverance and seizing opportunities as Gift Orban's story unfolds.

Introduction: 

Gift Emmanuel Orban's journey from Nigeria to Norway is nothing short of extraordinary. A tale of determination, talent, and unexpected opportunities.

Gift Emmanuel Orban, a name that might not have rung a bell a few years ago, has now become a sensation in the world of football. His journey from considering leaving the game altogether to making history with Lyon is nothing short of extraordinary.

Just like every Nigerian boy, Gift loved playing soccer and wanted to become a professional soccer player. So, he started skipping classes to play soccer. This risk almost turned FATAL.

The Turning Point
A little over a year ago, Gift Orban was at a crossroads, contemplating a career outside football. Hailing from a Nigerian-Togolese background, Gift faced challenges finding a club in Nigeria. His passion for the game, however, pushed him to give it another shot, a decision that would change his life.

A football trial organized by Ola Fowler in Lome, Togo proved to be the turning point. His standout performance caught the eye, earning him an invitation to a trial in Akwa Ibom, Uyo. He, had decided if the trial turn out in his favour, he will then turn his attention to becoming a police officer.

Trials & Triumphs
After the trial in Lome, Togo Ola Fowler really liked what he saw and asked Gift Orban to come for another trial in Akwa Ibom, Uyo. The trial in Uyo was organized by a powerful soccer agent, Emefie Atta Aneke, who works with famous players like Ighalo and Chelsea's Datro Fofana.

The trial was supposed to go on for 6 days with players playing 9 games having the chance to impress scouts from European leagues. However, Gift Orban was taken out after just 2 matches. 

Unpredictable Path of Life

Life has no script, and Gift's journey embodies this truth. Gift's exceptional skills prompted an early withdrawal after just 2 matches in a trial that was supposed to last for 6 days. His confidence, evident in scoring three goals in one game, left a lasting impression on scouts.

When asked why he withdrew Gift Orban after just 2 matches, he said, 

“There was no need keeping him there any longer”

“Gift scored 3 goals in one game and it wasn't just that he scored, it was how. His confidence and the way he struck the ball; I instantly knew that this was a player that would go far.”

                            Nigerian football Scout, Ola Fowler

From Norway to Stardom

Norwegian scout from Starbaek FC, a team that had just been relegated to the second division of the Norwegian League witnessing Gift's prowess, wanted him IMMEDIATELY. This paved the way for his entry into European football. 

In 2022, Gift was asked to come to Starbaek's pre-season training camp, but he didn't do well to impress, and this surprised the coaches. He went back to Nigeria when his visa ended in February and felt sad because his dreams didn't come true.

Gift's journey with Starbaek, starting in the second division, faced initial setbacks but eventually led to a remarkable ascent to the first team.

Seizing Opportunities

In Norway, something unexpected occurred. Starbaek didn't have a main striker, so they re-invited Gift to come back and practice with the second team to see if he could improve. Their second team played in the lowest division in Norway and Gift was excited to join them when he moved from Nigeria to Norway in May 2022.

Gift faced visa troubles but didn't let that hinder his progress and had to be loaned from Bison FC. He showcased his talent in the Norwegian 4th division, by scoring consistently. He scored in every game. 

A chance to play for the main team followed, when the club decided to give him a chance in a cup fixture with the main team, and Gift made the most of it. He scored and in his next game with the first team again, he scored TWICE. Those two chances helped him secure a permanent spot in Starbaek first team in the second division. 

Gift Orban tore the league in shreds scoring 9 goals and providing 3 assists in his first 7 games. He did this by either scoring or assisting in his first 7 matches CONSECUTIVELY. After the first 3 starts, Starbaek sold a player and immediately used the proceeds to activate Gift Orban's release clause from Nigerian club, “Bison FC” to make him an official Starbaek player.

In 22 games, Gift Orban scored 16 goals with 7 assists tying for the Golden Boot award and led Starbaek back to the Norwegian 1st division.

Gent FC & European Glory
Scouts around Europe quickly took notice of the Nigerian wonder boy. Samuel Cardenas, a scout from Gent FC, Belgium 1st Division recognized Gift's potential and convinced the club to invest €3 million. He had just spent just 3 months as a professional player.

Gift made a stellar debut for Gent in February 11th 2023, scoring two goals, and continued to impress with four more goals in subsequent matches. However, the Volcano had not yet erupted. 3 days after scoring 4 goals for Gent, Gift Orban scored 3 goals in 3 minutes in the European Conference League. This incredible feat put the whole football world on red alert.  

Gift Orban's remarkable feat continued. He ended up scoring a 32 goals for Gent and this led to French Giants, Lyon seeking his signature - A player that wasn't even playing professional football 2years ago.

Lyon's €12 Million Gamble
A staggering 32 goals for Gent caught the attention of French giants Lyon, who didn't hesitate to spend €13 million to secure his services, a player that cost Gent €3 Million a year ago.

                  Image of gift orban unveiling as lyon player

Lille had concrete interest in Gift Orban as a new striker as a replacement for Jonathan David as important bid for the canadian striker was expected. However, it was Lyon that ultimately got his signature in a deal that will be valid until june 2028. Gift Orban became the FIRST Nigerian to play for Lyon after just barely 2 years as a professional. 

Conclusion
Gift Orban's journey serves as a testament to the unpredictability of life. From almost giving up on football to becoming the first Nigerian to play for Lyon in just over two years, his story resonates with the essence of hard work, discipline, and patience.

Life, much like an ocean, has its ups and downs. Gift's journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, highlights the significance of perseverance. In the face of setbacks, Gift Orban stood tall, proving that every fall is an opportunity to rise again. He is the FIRST Nigerian to play for Lyon after just barely 2 years as a professional. 

Gift Orban's meteoric rise from obscurity to Lyon is a story of determination, resilience, and unwavering passion for the game. As he continues to make history, Gift Orban stands as an inspiration for aspiring footballers worldwide. Don't give up; your chance will come – a lesson echoed by the remarkable journey of Gift Orban.

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