- Victor Osimhen played a key role in Galatasaray’s 20-game unbeaten streak before their loss to Ajax in the Europa League
- Engin described Osimhen as a "blessing from God" for Galatasaray, praising his ability to improve the team’s play
- Etebo also stated that Osimhen’s relentless work ethic and dedication make him a world-class forward
Former Beşiktaş midfielder Sinan Engin has praised Galatasaray's signing of Victor Osimhen last September and suggested that it had given them an unfair advantage in the title race.
Osimhen, who had failed deadline-day moves to Premier League giants Chelsea and Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli in the summer transfer window of 2024, had instead joined The Turkish Lion, a move that shocked several footballing circles.
Since his arrival at Galatasaray, Osimhen had made a significant impact on the pitch. Reportedly, he registered twenty-two goal involvements, comprising seventeen goals and five assists in just twenty-two appearances.
His performances had been instrumental in propelling the Istanbul club on a 20-game unbeaten run until they suffered a defeat against Ajax Amsterdam in a Europa League encounter at the end of January.
Osimhen’s excellent form helped the team build a six-point advantage over arch-rivals Fenerbahçe in the Süper Lig standings and secure their place in the Europa League knockout phase.
In a recent interview, Sinan Engin stated,
"Osimhen, unfair competition. A blessing from God to Galatasaray."
Engin added that the transfer had been a great chance for the club, emphasising that Osimhen not only boosted the team's scoring prowess but also elevated the overall play.
Galatasaray had already begun talks to sign Osimhen on a permanent deal at the end of the season. However, negotiations appeared challenging as Napoli had valued the former Lille striker at 75 million euros.
This valuation, coupled with the financial constraints faced by the Istanbul club, suggested that Galatasaray might be priced out of a long-term deal. The club will most likely be unable to match the financial power of European giants like Chelsea or Juventus, both of whom had been linked with the Nigerian star in the past.
Meanwhile, praise for Osimhen was not limited to Istanbul. Nigerian midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo also declared Osimhen as the best striker in the world in an interview with Milliyet.
Etebo described the Super Eagles forward's exceptional talent, dedication, and work ethic,
"His move to Galatasaray was a great decision. He is an incredibly dedicated player who leaves everything on the pitch for his team," Etebo stated, adding that Osimhen's continued goal-scoring form promised a bright and successful future ahead.
Osimhen’s Turkey future in doubt as Napoli rejects hefty first bid
Previously, TheRadar reported that Super Eagles Victor Osimhen's time at Galatasaray appeared to be winding down, with reports suggesting that the Turkish club had already begun preparing for his departure.
The club had launched a massive €65 million bid for the 26-year-old on Wednesday, January 29. However, Napoli swiftly rejected the offer, insisting that any club interested in securing Osimhen’s services must trigger his €75 million release clause.
