Nigerian center forward Gift Orban has revealed the reason he decided to dump French Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais in favour of a move to Bundesliga’s TSG Hoffenheim in the January transfer window, Footynaija.com reports.
Orban joined Lyon in the 2023/2024 season in a deal worth €15 million, completing a winter window switch after posting impressive numbers during his time in the Belgian Pro League with K.A.A Gent.
Despite arriving from Belgium with the reputation of a reliable goal-scorer, the 22-year-old found himself struggling for match minutes as he was below club captain Alexander Lacazette in the pecking order of striking options.
In a chat with TSG Hoffenheim’s official website, Orban revealed that the lack of playing opportunities at Lyon was contrary to his desire to play more football so when the chance came, it was easy for him to move on.
“I didn’t have many opportunities [at Lyon], and I also had very strong competitors,” the 22-year-old center forward said.
“The coach preferred Alexandre Lacazette in my position, he is the captain of the team and a club legend. I wanted to play more, so I moved on. TSG trusts me, and that is important.
“I’m very straight. If I don’t like something, I’m talking to someone, but in return, you should also be honest with me. I can’t suffer if you talk badly behind someone’s back.”
Orban has scored four times for Hoffenheim in seven starts since his arrival in January. The former Gent man will be looking help the German side stay above the relegation waters and secure their Bundesliga status ahead of next season.
