Nigeria’s prolific forward, Victor Osimhen, has declared his readiness to lead Turkish giants Galatasaray to success in the UEFA Champions League, saying the club is determined to prove itself among Europe’s elite.
The 26-year-old Super Eagles striker, who sealed a permanent move to Galatasaray after a successful loan spell in the 2024/25 season, said he is motivated to make a lasting impact on the continental stage.
“I spoke with the president when I arrived here, and we agreed that we want to make a statement in the Champions League,” Osimhen told UEFA in an interview cited by PUNCH Online on Tuesday. “We’ve dominated the Turkish league for years, but now we want to show that we can compete among the best in Europe.”
Osimhen’s story remains one of football’s most inspiring — from growing up in Olusosun, a slum community in Lagos, to becoming one of the most sought-after strikers in world football.
“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.”
The Nigerian star described his arrival in Istanbul as unforgettable, recalling how thousands of fans welcomed him at 3 a.m. “It gives you that fire to give everything for the badge,” he said. “I absolutely love this club and I’m ready to go through everything with them — the good, the bad, and the ugly.”
Osimhen, who has often cited Chelsea legend Didier Drogba as his football idol, said he models his playing style and mentality after the Ivorian icon. “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 noted.
As Galatasaray aim for a strong run in the Champions League, Osimhen believes the club has what it takes to restore Turkish football’s glory on the European stage.
“We are the biggest club in Turkey, and one of the biggest in the world,” he said. “Now, we want to prove it in the Champions League.”
