Gift Orban Says Lacazette Blocked Lyon Move, Thrives at Hoffenheim

Super Eagles striker Gift Orban has opened up about his short lived spell at Lyon, citing limited opportunities due to the preference for club captain Alexandre Lacazette. Orban, who joined the French club from Genk in early 2024, made only three league appearances before securing a winter move to German Bundesliga side Hoffenheim.

Speaking in an interview with Hoffenheim’s official website, the 22 year old explained that the competition for places particularly with Lacazette meant he struggled for game time. “The coach preferred Alexandre Lacazette in my position he’s the team captain and a club legend. I wanted to play more, so I moved on. TSG trusts me, and that’s important,” he said.

Orban also cited the respectful treatment he received from Hoffenheim’s management as key to his decision. Since arriving in Germany, he has scored four goals in 12 league appearances and played a critical role in pulling Hoffenheim out of the relegation zone.

Reflecting on his journey, Orban stressed the importance of hard work over pure talent. “Many say I have talent. But if you’re talented and don’t work, it’s no use,” he stated. He often trains extra with Andrej Kramarić to improve his finishing and aims to help Hoffenheim remain in the Bundesliga.

Despite his fine form, Orban missed the Super Eagles squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe but remains hopeful of a recall for the June four-nation tournament in London.

Editorial

Gift Orban’s candid revelations about his time at Lyon pull back the curtain on the tough realities young talents face at big clubs. His frustration is understandable. It’s never easy walking into a team where a figure like Alexandre Lacazette commands not just the starting role but the emotional loyalty of the fanbase and coaching staff.

What Orban deserves credit for, however, is not only recognising that situation early but acting decisively. His move to Hoffenheim has breathed new life into his career and at just 22, that kind of proactive mindset is golden. He sought a platform where he could express himself, and he’s taken his chance with both feet.

The Nigerian forward also strikes the right chord with his emphasis on work ethic. Football is littered with the stories of ‘what could have been’ players who had talent but lacked discipline. Orban’s self-awareness and humility stand out, as does his dedication to improvement.

For the Super Eagles, his story presents a timely opportunity. Nigeria’s forward line is packed with talent, but few show Orban’s blend of grit and raw edge. If he maintains this upward trajectory, he’s not just knocking on the national team’s door he’s ready to kick it down.

Did You Know?

1. Gift Orban scored 20 goals in his first 22 appearances for Belgian side Gent, attracting interest from clubs across Europe.
2. Alexandre Lacazette is Lyon’s all-time second-highest goalscorer, with over 180 goals for the club.
3. Orban’s transfer to Hoffenheim reportedly cost €12 million, one of the club’s top five most expensive signings.
4. He was born in Nigeria but raised in Togo and is eligible to represent either nation, though he has committed to Nigeria.
5. Hoffenheim have avoided relegation in every Bundesliga season since their promotion in 2008.