Nigeria’s star striker Victor Osimhen has declared his readiness to lead Galatasaray to new heights in the UEFA Champions League, saying it is time to “make a statement in the most prestigious games.”
The 26-year-old forward, who joined Galatasaray permanently this summer after a stellar loan spell in the 2024/25 season, has quickly become a fan favourite among the club’s passionate supporters.
Speaking in an interview with UEFA, cited by PUNCH Online on Tuesday, Osimhen said he shares the club’s ambition to compete among Europe’s elite.
“I spoke with the president when I arrived here, and we agreed that we want to make a statement in the Champions League,” Osimhen said.
“We’ve dominated the Turkish league for years, but now we want to show that we can compete among the best in Europe.”
The Super Eagles star, known for his fiery determination and relentless work ethic, reflected on his humble beginnings in Olusosun, Lagos, which he said shaped his character.
“I came from a very poor background. Olusosun shaped me. It taught me resilience,” he recalled. “Whenever I go home, I visit to show gratitude and remind young kids that if I could make it out of there, they can too.”
Osimhen said his move to Istanbul rekindled his hunger for success, describing the club’s fanbase as one of the most passionate in the world.
“When I arrived in Istanbul, I had never seen anything like that before — thousands of fans at the airport at 3 am,” he said.
“It gives you that fire to give everything for the badge. I absolutely love this club and I’m ready to go through everything with them — the good, the bad, and the ugly.”
Drawing inspiration from his football hero Didier Drogba, who also played for Galatasaray, Osimhen said he has always admired the Ivorian legend’s leadership and mentality.
“In football, my hero was Drogba. I watched him and learned from how he played and lived. I tried to add his qualities to my own game,” he said.
“In life, my biggest inspiration was my brother; he taught me how to hustle and never give up.”
As Galatasaray prepare for a crucial Champions League campaign, Osimhen believes the club’s resurgence can help restore Turkish football’s pride on the continental stage.
“We are the biggest club in Turkey, and one of the biggest in the world,” he declared. “Now, we want to prove it in the Champions League.”
Osimhen’s blend of passion, perseverance, and purpose continues to make him one of Africa’s most inspiring football icons — and a central figure in Galatasaray’s quest for European glory.
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