Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has become the sixth Nigerian footballer to don the iconic Galatasaray jersey, following his loan move from Napoli. This transfer marks another chapter in Osimhen’s illustrious career, which has been marked by significant achievements, including leading Napoli to their first Serie A title in over three decades.
Osimhen’s journey to Galatasaray was a headline-grabbing saga during the summer transfer window. Despite signing a contract extension with Napoli in December 2023 that would keep him at the club until June 2026, the 25-year-old striker sought a new challenge. His impressive performances in the 2022-2023 season, where he netted 26 goals and claimed the Serie A top scorer award, made him one of Europe’s most coveted strikers.
Interest from top clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, PSG, Manchester United, and Liverpool was intense, but Osimhen ultimately chose to join the Turkish giants.
Upon his arrival in Turkey, Osimhen was met with a hero’s welcome from thousands of Galatasaray supporters, eager to see their new star in action. With his transfer settled until at least January, Osimhen is set to bring his goal-scoring prowess to the Süper Lig, aiming to replicate the success he achieved in Italy.
Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray continues a tradition of Nigerian players at the club. Here’s a look at the five Nigerians who preceded him:
1. Dominic Iorfa (1992): The first Nigerian to play for Galatasaray, Iorfa joined the club in 1992. His time in Turkey was short but memorable, as he scored three goals in nine appearances during his eight-month stint.
2. Henry Onyekuru (2018-2021): Onyekuru, who joined Galatasaray from Everton in 2018, is arguably the most successful Nigerian to play for the club. He made 71 appearances, scored 22 goals, and provided 12 assists, helping Galatasaray win the Turkish Super Lig and the League Cup.
3. Valentine Ozornwafor (2019-2022): After a promising start at Enyimba, Ozornwafor moved to Galatasaray in 2019. However, his time in Turkey did not live up to expectations, as he managed only one appearance in three years.
4. Oghenekaro Etebo (2020-2021): Etebo joined Galatasaray on loan in 2020 and made 29 appearances for the club. His time in Turkey was marked by solid performances, although he did not stay beyond his loan spell.
5. Jesse Sekidika (2020-2022): Sekidika also joined Galatasaray in 2020, making 19 appearances and scoring one goal. While his impact was limited, he remains part of the club’s recent history.
With Victor Osimhen now added to this list, Galatasaray supporters have high hopes that the Nigerian striker will deliver the kind of performances that have made him a star across Europe.
