'Little Ronaldo' Says His Coaches Also Compare Him To Arsenal Great Thierry Henry

A Nigerian youngster, who has been dubbed as “Little Ronaldo,” revealed that some of his coaches believe he shares some traits with Thierry Henry.

When talking about all-time greats, it’s hard not to mention Ronaldo and Henry’s names. The two once dominated the sport and were best known for their incredible goal-scoring abilities. But just like any other legendary players, “Il Fenomeno” and “Titou” also reached the end of their career. However, a Nigerian youngster named Peter Olawale has emerged as not only the next Ronaldo but, according to his coaches and some witnesses, the next Henry as well.

In an exclusive interview with Goal, Olawale named Brazilian legend Ronaldo as his role model. Already being referred to as “Little Ronaldo,” Olawale even vowed to exceed the legendary player.

“My role model is Ronaldo Nazario. I love the way he plays, he is fast, skillful and he’s got power-packed shots too and these are the characteristics I possess. I watch his video always and I keep working hard to do better than him,” Olawale revealed.

Aside from fairly resembling Ronaldo’s style of playing, the 17-year-old shared that some of his coaches back in Nigeria also see some references in his game to Arsenal great Henry.

“My coaches in my academy and national team feel I share some traits with Thierry Henry, but deep down my heart, it is Brazil’s Ronaldo that I cherish and try to emulate,” he continued.

Olawale has a promising career ahead of him. He is on the verge of joining French top-flight outfit Lille after recruiters from the club noticed his impressive form for the Nigerian national team at the 2019 U17 World Cup in Brazil.

Some might think that being compared to not just one but two legendary players would be a burden for a teenager like Olawale. However, the Tripple 44 Academy starlet insisted that the comparisons only motivate him to be at the top of his game. After all, Olawale said that being likened to all-time greats is good for now, but he aspires to make a name for himself in the future.

“Not at all! As much as I feel [honored] getting compared with this football icon, I try to be myself always. I would love to make my own mark and hopefully someday, those coming behind would see me as their role model,” Olawale pointed out.

It didn’t take long for the big clubs to notice Olawale’s form. In fact, reports claim that Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Fenerbahce and Besiktas already have him on their radar.