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Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen has revealed that it was ‘quite easy’ to accept leaving Napoli to join Galatasaray

Victor Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray came as a surprise to many after failed transfers to Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea, and Al Ahli in the summer of 2024.

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However, the Nigerian striker has now revealed why choosing the Turkish giants was an easy decision.

Why Osimhen chose Galatasaray

Speaking about his decision to join Galatasaray on loan for the 2024/25 season, Osimhen admitted in an interview with Super Ealgles legend John Mikel Obi, that many fans were were shocked about his arrival.

“Most of them [Galatasaray fans] say that they didn’t believe Osimhen is going to come to their club,” he said.

The Super Eagles star also revealed that the club’s manager Okan Buruk played a crucial role in convincing him, adding “For me, it was easy to be able to come here because the coach also played a huge role in making me come here.

The 26-year-old striker also noted that his close friendship with Dries Mertens, a former Napoli teammate now at Galatasaray, made him familiar with the club’s style of play.

“I also watched their games because I am very close to Dries[Mertens], so I watched their games even before I dreamt of coming here,” Osimhen said.

Osimhen identifies with the Galatasaray mentality

Beyond tactics and familiar faces, Osimhen also saw a deeper connection with Galatasaray’s identity as Lions of Turkey.

Speaking about the things that drew him to Galatasaray, Osimhen said, “You know the symbol of the club is a Lion, and I think I fall into this category in terms of the way I play and in terms of the way I’ve survived through life’s journey.”

Osimhen further revealed that the club’s ambition made it an obvious choice for him, adding, “When I spoke with the coach, he told me about the project and about the goal the club set for itself this season, and we have the same mindset.”

The move has already paid off, as Osimhen has scored 23 goals in 29 matches, helping Galatasaray push for another Super Lig title.