Victor Osimhen, the prolific striker for both the Super Eagles and Galatasaray, was the standout player in his team’s narrow 1-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Liverpool, according to Soccernet.ng.
At 26 years old, Osimhen attracted interest from numerous elite clubs across Europe and the Middle East. Ultimately, he committed to a four-year contract with Galatasaray following an initial loan period.
While Chelsea bolstered their squad by acquiring Liam Delap and Joao Pedro, and Liverpool invested over £190 million in Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, former Manchester City defender Micah Richards expressed surprise at Osimhen’s choice to join a Turkish club. Richards argued that Osimhen had the potential to be among the Premier League’s top forwards.
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“Osimhen’s decision to sign a four-year contract with Galatasaray in Turkey is quite unexpected,” Micah Richards remarked on The Rest is Football podcast.
“He’s a top-tier talent who deserves to compete at the highest level. Galatasaray is a prestigious club, but in terms of European football, I believe he could have aimed higher.
“He would easily rank among the top three strikers in the Premier League. Joao Pedro is fantastic, but there’s no way he surpasses Osimhen,” added the CBS Sports Golazo analyst.
Although Gary Lineker acknowledged Osimhen’s undeniable talent on the field, he voiced concerns regarding the striker’s professionalism off it.
“I watched Osimhen play a few times against Leicester during their Europa League campaign,” the former Leicester City forward shared.
“He was outstanding, and I’ve kept track of his progress ever since. His performances at Napoli were nothing short of spectacular.
“However, I’ve heard whispers that some clubs hesitate because he occasionally disappears for days, raising questions about his character,” Lineker added.
Lineker Issues Apology to Osimhen
After Osimhen’s exceptional display at RAMS Park against Liverpool, Lineker publicly retracted his earlier remarks, admitting they were based on unverified rumors.
“I owe Victor Osimhen an apology. I previously suggested he sometimes disappears, but I now believe that’s unfounded,” Lineker stated.
“Victor, if you’re hearing this, I’m sorry for spreading those rumors. It was wrong of me.
“He’s fast, tall, a clinical finisher, and dominant in aerial duels. He dismantled Konate. Truly an outstanding player,” the 64-year-old concluded.
️ @GaryLineker: “I need to apologise to @VictorOsimhen9 Gary Victor Osimhen pic.twitter.com/qe0LSSPVvl
– The Rest Is Football (@RestIsFootball) October 3, 2025
Osimhen’s tenure at Galatasaray has been remarkable, netting 40 goals and assisting seven times in 46 appearances across all competitions for the Cimbom Aslan.
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