The Osimhen transfer saga has come to an end, and what a twist it has taken. Victor Osimhen, one of the best strikers in the world, is set to join Galatasaray on a season-long loan. This news has left many in the football world stunned, wondering how a player of his caliber ended up in Turkey.
Osimhen’s critics will tell you that an injury-prone player who had one extraordinary season cannot be priced as high as 130m euros (£110m). However, this argument underestimates just how much he has developed and accomplished. The Nigerian striker has a proven track record of delivering under pressure, and his skills on the field are undeniable.
From Napoli to Galatasaray: The Unlikely Journey of Victor Osimhen
The journey of Victor Osimhen to Galatasaray is a fascinating one. He was instrumental in Napoli’s historic Serie A title win, scoring 31 goals and providing five assists in 39 matches. His dedication to his craft stood out, as he would often stay behind after hours to train with the team’s manager, Luciano Spalletti. This dedication paid off, and Osimhen became the most important player in the squad.
However, his history with injuries has been a topic of discussion. Osimhen has been known to give it his all on the field, which can be detrimental to his body. As Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport put it, “Osimhen attacks every shot as if it were the Olympic 100m.” While this makes him a fan favorite, it also raises concerns about his longevity in the sport.
A Season of Brilliance
One goal that will always stand out is the one he scored against Jose Mourinho’s Roma in January 2023. Controlling a cross with his chest, he allowed the ball to fall neatly onto his thigh before firing a perfect volley into the roof of the net. The stunned spectators were left in awe, and the goal was even praised by Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen, who called it “simply lovely.”
A True Leader on the Field
Osimhen’s impact on the team went beyond his goal-scoring ability. He was a leader on the field, always motivating his teammates to push themselves. When Napoli was thumped 4-0 by AC Milan in the Champions League, it was the absence of Osimhen that left them rueful. His ability to motivate a team is a rare quality, and one that sets him apart from other strikers in the world.
The Transfer Saga: What Went Wrong?
So, how did a player like Victor Osimhen end up in Turkey? The answer lies in the transfer saga that unfolded over the summer. Napoli’s owner, Aurelio de Laurentiis, had confirmed that the player was set to leave the club, and a contract extension was announced, which included a big salary bump and a release clause of 130m euros. However, this clause was deemed too high by many clubs, and the transfer sagas began.
Chelsea were interested in signing Osimhen, but were unable to match his salary requirements. Al-Ahli of Saudi Arabia were also in the running, but were not willing to meet Napoli’s valuation. It seemed like Osimhen’s future was up in the air, until Galatasaray stepped in with a season-long loan offer.
A New Chapter in Istanbul
Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray may have been seen as a fall from grace by some, but it’s a new chapter in his career. He will don the red and yellow strip once worn by his idol, Didier Drogba, and will have the opportunity to shine in a new league. The move also includes a clause that will allow him to leave Istanbul if one of the top 10 clubs he has listed come calling in January.
A Future in the Premier League?
While Osimhen’s immediate future is in Turkey, it’s likely that he will return to the Premier League in the future. His release clause has been brought down to a more reasonable 75m euros (£63m), making him a more attractive proposition for top clubs. Only time will tell if Osimhen will make the move to England, but one thing is for sure, he will always be remembered as one of the best strikers in the world.