Olakunle Olusegun, the Nigerian striker who plies his trade in Krasnodar, has shared reflections on Russian culture and daily life in Russia. The conversation, reported by sports24, sheds light on his experiences adapting to a new environment while pursuing top-flight football in one of Europe’s most demanding leagues.
He notes that Russians are often strict and approach tasks with a serious mindset. In contrast, Africans are known for their humor and warmth, a difference that has shaped his first months abroad. Food, a big part of home for many players, has proved a challenge. He admits he has not taken to local staples like chebureks or shawarma and that borscht and ravioli do not appeal to him. Instead, he often returns to familiar flavors from home, cooking rice with chicken and vegetables that he has enjoyed since childhood. Changes in diet can be tough when adapting to a new country, but Olusegun emphasizes the importance of staying connected to one’s roots while learning to enjoy new experiences. (Source: sports24)
The move to Russia has also brought personal growth. Olusegun has expressed appreciation for the ease of communication with Russian teammates, though language barriers can still pose moments of humor and learning. He points out that friendships form more easily when language bridges exist, and this has helped him feel more at ease in a foreign city. (Source: sports24)
Born in Nigeria, Olusegun developed his football skills at a club in Gelendzhik before turning professional. His early career included a stint with the Danish team Fremad Amager, where he first tasted life outside his home country. In 2021 Krasnodar took him on loan from Bulgaria’s Botev, and the following year the club exercised an option to buy him. Those moves marked a turning point, setting the stage for a period of steady progression within the Russian Premier League. (Source: sports24)
In the current season, Olusegun has appeared in 13 league matches, scoring four goals and contributing one assist. Krasnodar sits in eighth place after 17 rounds, a position that reflects both the depth of competition in the league and the impact a striker can have when given opportunities. His performances have added an important dimension to the squad, offering a blend of pace, tenacity, and a willingness to press defenders high up the pitch. (Source: sports24)
Beyond the details on the pitch, Olusegun has spoken candidly about the challenges he faced growing up. He has recalled a difficult childhood, including the tough circumstances surrounding his family and the way adversity shaped his dedication to football. He has credited his early mentors and coaches with instilling resilience and showing him that hard work can create a path to professional sports. These memories underscore a universal message for young players: tenacity and commitment can help overcome obstacles and turn dreams into reality. (Source: sports24)
Olusegun’s story highlights not only the trajectory of a professional athlete but also the broader experience of international players adapting to life in a new country. Language, cuisine, cultural norms, and everyday routines all factor into how players acclimate to a club, a city, and a league with its own rhythm and expectations. His balanced perspective—respect for local culture while honoring his roots—offers a relatable example for others navigating similar journeys in top-tier football. (Source: sports24)