My rise to becoming the star of Czech League — Victor Olatunji

Like most people dogged to pursue a career path, Victor Olatunji went against his father’s wish for him to aggressively pursue education.

But because of his close affinity with his mother, he succeeded in discountenance his father’s wish and the rest is history.

Nigerian born striker, Olatunji in this interview with our reporter, BOLAJI OKUNOLA, talked about his success story which had seen him emerged cynosure of all eyes in the round leather game.

The Czech Republic based goal poacher who ply his trade with league defending champion, Sparta Praha, however highlighted his background struggles, Super Eagles dream, UEFA Champions League experience, lifestyle and lots more.

Can you kindly speak about your upbringing and your parent perception on your football career?

I’m a native of Osun State, Ilesha to be precise. I further moved to Sokoto before relocating to Abuja, where my career was shaped.

After that I relocated to Kwara State where I got the privilege of meeting those who hasten my choice while playing grassroots competition in various location of the state. I further joined grassroots football club, Lagos Islanders where I bagged several goals capable of attract scouts. At the beginning, my mum was the only one who supported my dream while my dad insisted on education. I was able to convinced him after passing a trial which fetched me an European contract and since then, he has been very proud of me.

How has your journey to Europe been considering the weather condition?

The move to Slovakian side, Inter Bratislava was my first European experience. The weather over there was killing and I thank God I was able to cope. I further showed my worth with club’s rival, Zeleziarne Podbrezova before moving to Austrian side, Mattersburg on loan.

In my quest for greener pasture, I later signed for Cypriot side, Alki Oroklini and AEK Larnaca before switching to Czech Republic Slovan Liberec and current side, Sparta Prague.

You’re undoubtedly the biggest name in Sparta Prague, how were you able to achieve that ?

It’s just the grace of God. Emerging club current highest goal scorer in the ongoing season is not a child’s play. I’ve played 14 games this season, scoring four goals and making two assists. These includes my UEFA Champions League goal against Salzburg that brought  me to the limelight.

Having mentioned that, were you under pressure playing and scoring in a big competition like the UCL?

I wasn’t under any pressure scoring and playing in UCL. I prepare myself for such competition. We all know the Czech league isn’t that easy and winning the league and cup had earlier sharpened me for continental outing. I was really expecting a tough season knowing that my club will depend on me for goals in a group which comprises of German champion, Bayern Leverkusen, Salzburg, Feyenoord, Inter Milan and host of others.

Although playing against Man City was the toughest and I’m glad I wasn’t pressurized seeing the big names they paraded. We played according to instructions and I can tell you the tourney inspired me for more challenges and I’m delighted I’m part of history.

Scoring in the UCL with an iconic goal celebration which saw you flaunting a shirt captioned “I’m a chosen”, what inspired that ?

I was challenged  by a close pal to do so. I know I’ll score that very day against Salzburg. Although I netted against them in a pre-season friendly and I was challenged to achieve similar thing. Immediately that was done, I flaunted my customized shirt which carried the then famous social media slogan, ‘I’m a chosen’.

With your goal scoring prowess, are you currently eying a Super Eagles call-up?

There’s currently a new coach for the Super Eagles, his plans and strategies will surely have a lot should I eventually gets an invite. Although I’ve been dreaming to play for the national team and I think I’m in good shape to get a call-up. It’s obvious the coach has the power to pick any player and I’m glad I’m in good form for such. As we speak, I’m yet to receive any call from the NFF but if that eventually come, I won’t hesitate to honour it.

Which Nigerian player are you looking up to?

I’ll say Odion Ighalo. I’ve always love the way he play and position himself on the pitch. But personally, my main role model is Cristiano Ronaldo.

As a striker, who’s the toughest defender you’ve encountered?

I’ve played against several defenders and I think my toughest remains Liverpool’s Van Dijk. He gave me a tough time in last season’s UEFA Europa League outing.

With your goal scoring record, did you received any offer during the transfer?

Yes I did. I received some offers which I won’t love to disclose duo to certain reasons. Those offers were eventually turned off because my team is still keen on me based on my current form. Having said that, I’ve always admire the German league ahead of the Italian Serie A, Premier League, Laliga and Ligue 1.

Can you open up about how you’ve been able to manage girls and clubbing which have been part of the lifestyle of top footballers?

Smile! Women are special human. As a striker, I have to stay away from them so I can go higher in my career. I remember my mother always tell me never to climb a ladder with two different objects and I can tell you that statement has inspired my career. I chose to carry football first before woman and I’m happy seeing how far I’ve gone keeping her words.

How have you been coping with racism in Czech?

Racism is everywhere across Europe. I’ve been facing that on and off the pitch. I see it as a source of motivation.

Although I often ignore it based on the fact that I’m more successful than some fans who derive pleasure mocking me because of my colour.

Lastly, what are other career you love to venture into?

I’d have been a musician if not for football. I love music so much and my favourite artist remains Davido.