Victor Osimhen Explains Why He Snubbed the Premier League To Sign for Galatasaray, Video
- Victor Osimhen rejected Premier League interest from Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Newcastle to sign permanently with Galatasaray
- The Super Eagles striker cited family, safety, and happiness as his key reasons for staying in Turkey
- Galatasaray secured a €75 million record transfer, as Osimhen prepares to lead a star-studded attack with Icardi and Sane
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has finally revealed why he turned down the chance to play in the English Premier League to sign a permanent deal with Galatasaray.
The 26-year-old Nigerian forward was heavily linked to top English clubs including Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Newcastle United, but chose to continue in Turkey after a record-breaking loan spell last season.
Source: Getty Images
Even ex-Chelsea and Nigerian midfielder Mikel Obi reportedly tried to convince Osimhen to move to the Premier League, travelling to Turkey last season to hold talks with the ex-Napoli striker.
However, Osimhen had made up his mind early and has now completed a permanent switch from Napoli to Galatasaray in a record €75 million transfer per GOAL, the most expensive in Turkish football history.
Osimhen shares reason for choosing Galatasaray
On his arrival in Istanbul, where thousands of Galatasaray fans flooded the airport to welcome him, Osimhen explained why he never considered any other offer apart from that of the Turkish champions.
Source: Getty Images
Speaking to journalists in a video posted by Making of Champions, the Super Eagles star said Galatasaray was home and where he and his family feel safe and happy.
“This is where I want to be and I’m happy to be here to where I feel safe, to where I feel home for my family, for my friends. I’m happy to continue with Galatasaray.
“It’s only Gala. It has been my mindset for a while since the start of this year, but I just wanted to be focused to make sure that we achieve what the coach and club have set.
“When we achieved that, I sat with everyone, including the President, Vice President, and then we spoke about everything. And I’m happy that the deal is done.”
Galatasaray’s big ambition with Osimhen
Osimhen’s decision to stay in Turkey is a huge boost for Galatasaray as they prepare for another dominant domestic season and a push in European competitions.
The Super Eagles striker, who scored 37 goals in all competitions last season, will now lead the line alongside Mauro Icardi and new signing Leroy Sane in attack, Transfermarkt reports.
Galatasaray’s decision to sign Osimhen permanently also sends a strong message to rival clubs across Europe that they are ready to compete on the continent.
For Osimhen, the move is not just about football, but about finding a home where he feels valued and safe, after a turbulent end to his spell at Napoli.
Galatasaray release first photos of Osimhen
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Galatasaray have officially shared the first photos of Osimhen following his spectacular arrival in Istanbul, as the Turkish champions edge closer to finalising his permanent signing.
The 26-year-old Nigerian striker, who arrived on a private jet from Germany, was greeted by thousands of passionate supporters at the airport in a dramatic homecoming.
Proofreading by Omoleye Omoruyi, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
