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Tag: victor osimhen

  • Osimhen, Mbeumo Lead Nigeria, Cameroon World Cup Playoff Push

    Osimhen, Mbeumo Lead Nigeria, Cameroon World Cup Playoff Push

    Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen and Cameroon’s Bryan Mbeumo will headline Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff semi-finals on Thursday in Rabat, Morocco, where only one of their nations can move closer to qualification.

    Nigeria face Gabon, while Cameroon take on the Democratic Republic of Congo in the last-four clashes. The winners will meet in Sunday’s final, also in Rabat, with a spot in next March’s intercontinental playoffs on the line.

    The eventual African representative will battle teams from the Central America/Caribbean region, Bolivia, New Caledonia, and either Iraq or the United Arab Emirates for two remaining World Cup slots.

    Nigeria and Cameroon are widely tipped to reach the final. Both teams are among four African runners-up handed a second chance to join the nine already qualified nations — Algeria, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia — for the expanded 48-team tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

    Osimhen’s form could prove decisive. The Super Eagles striker netted a hat-trick in Nigeria’s 4–0 win over Benin last month to clinch their playoff berth and followed up with another treble for Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League. “I love Victor. He is the best striker in the world,” said Nigeria coach Eric Chelle, adding that the clash in Morocco “will be very difficult.”

    Gabon, though underdogs, boast attacking firepower of their own. Denis Bouanga, shortlisted for the 2025 African Player of the Year, scored eight times in qualifying, while veteran Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang added seven goals as he seeks a final shot at World Cup glory.

    On the other side, Cameroon’s hopes rest on Mbeumo, who has hit top form for Manchester United with four goals in his last four matches and was named Premier League Player of the Month for October.

    Coach Marc Brys is banking on the 26-year-old’s sharpness to lift the Indomitable Lions, who have a record eight World Cup appearances but finished second to Cape Verde in their qualifying group after a costly goalless draw with Angola.

    Meanwhile, DR Congo will be without injured Newcastle winger Yoane Wissa, weakening their chances after squandering a two-goal lead in their final group match against Senegal.

    With World Cup dreams hanging in the balance, Thursday’s fixtures promise high drama as Africa’s remaining hopefuls battle to stay in contention for a place on football’s biggest stage.

  • Injury Rules Osimhen Out of Galatasaray’s Champions League Opener

    Injury Rules Osimhen Out of Galatasaray’s Champions League Opener

    Galatasaray will be without star striker Victor Osimhen when they face Eintracht Frankfurt in their Champions League opener on Thursday.

    The Nigerian international failed to recover from a shin injury sustained during Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda in last week’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo. He was substituted in the first half and has since been undergoing treatment in Turkey.

    Osimhen also missed Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with South Africa and Galatasaray’s 2-0 weekend victory over Eyüpspor. Hopes of his early return were raised after reports in Turkey suggested he was willing to make sacrifices to feature in Frankfurt, but the club confirmed his absence when announcing their 23-man squad on Wednesday.

    The 26-year-old had been in strong form before the setback, scoring in both of his opening league appearances after completing a high-profile summer move. He netted 37 goals in 41 matches last season while on loan and has 19 goals in 32 career UEFA competition games.

    His absence is a major blow for Galatasaray, who face a challenging Champions League group that includes Liverpool, Manchester City, Atletico Madrid, Ajax, Monaco, Union SG and Bodø/Glimt.

    The Turkish champions were knocked out in the Europa League play-offs last season and will be looking to make a stronger impact in Europe this time around.

    Head coach Okan Buruk will now have to rely on alternative attacking options against Frankfurt as Osimhen works toward full fitness.

    The forward is expected to return in the coming weeks to bolster Galatasaray’s domestic and European campaigns.

  • Osimhen Sidelined with Ankle Sprain, Misses Nigeria’s Next Match

    Osimhen Sidelined with Ankle Sprain, Misses Nigeria’s Next Match

    Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen suffered an ankle sprain while on international duty with Nigeria during Saturday’s 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over Rwanda, the club confirmed.

    Osimhen was substituted midway through the first half following a challenge from Rwandan defender Claude Niyomugabo. Initial examinations by Nigeria’s medical team suggested a shin bruise, but further tests in Turkey revealed a moderate ankle sprain.

    “Examinations conducted today on Victor Osimhen in our hospital detected a moderate sprain in the ankle ligaments, and treatment has begun to ensure a swift return to the field,” Galatasaray team doctor Dr. Yener Slim said in a statement.

    Super Eagles Media Officer Promise Efoghe confirmed that Osimhen would not travel with the squad to face South Africa in Bloemfontein on Tuesday. “He woke up this morning with discomfort and will not be travelling with the squad,” Efoghe wrote.

    During the match against Rwanda, Osimhen was replaced by Cyriel Dessers, who had limited impact. Second-half substitute Tolu Arokodare scored in the 51st minute, securing Nigeria’s victory and keeping their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes alive.

    Osimhen returned to Turkey for further assessment and treatment. It remains uncertain whether he will be fit for Galatasaray’s league clash against Eyüpspor on Saturday.

    The striker joined Galatasaray permanently from Napoli this summer for €75 million after a successful loan spell last season. He has scored two goals in three league appearances this season, helping the team top the table with 12 points.

  • Osimhen sets Turkish transfer record

    Osimhen sets Turkish transfer record

    Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has expressed heartfelt gratitude and excitement following his record-breaking transfer to Galatasaray, describing the club as the ideal environment to fully express himself both professionally and personally.

    The 26-year-old officially became the most expensive player in Turkish football history after Galatasaray activated his €75 million release clause from Napoli. Osimhen was unveiled to an ecstatic crowd in Istanbul on Wednesday night, with thousands of supporters flooding Atatürk Airport and lining the streets in celebration.

    Speaking during his first official interview with the club, Osimhen said he already felt a strong emotional connection with Galatasaray and its supporters.

    “This is where I can express myself fully through my football and with everything that I am,” he told the club’s official YouTube channel.

    Osimhen thanked Galatasaray president, vice president, technical advisor George Gardi, and head coach Okan Buruk for their roles in making the transfer happen.

    “I’m truly grateful to everyone who worked to bring me here. I came because I love this place, and I feel good here.”

    The Nigerian international spent the previous season on loan at Galatasaray, and said the overwhelming support from fans during that time heavily influenced his decision to return permanently.

    “I want to sincerely thank all the fans who followed our flight and came out to welcome me. I believe I will give my best here and show myself in the best way,” he said

    Osimhen, visibly moved by the fans’ reception, added that he is looking forward to reuniting with the supporters at his new football home.

    “I can’t wait to meet the fans again. This is my home now.”

    His €75 million transfer shatters the previous Turkish record held by Youssef En-Nesyri (€19.5m to Fenerbahçe), and puts him ahead of past Galatasaray marquee signings like Gabriel Sara (€18m), Mario Jardel (€17m), and Nicolo Zaniolo (€15m).

  • Victor Osimhen says fame limits his freedom

    Victor Osimhen says fame limits his freedom

    Napoli and Super Eagles forward, Victor Osimhen, has said he finds fame unexciting and often seeks comfort in returning to his roots in the Olusosun area of Lagos, where he grew up.

    In an interview with Instablog TV, Osimhen explained that visiting Olusosun offers him a much-needed escape from the limitations that come with being a public figure.

    “I like to stay around these people [Olusosun residents]. I like to stay close to them because I feel like fame is boring,” he said.

    He added that fame has restricted his ability to enjoy simple moments with his loved ones. Recalling a personal experience, Osimhen described how his first outing with his daughter in Italy was overshadowed by fans seeking pictures and videos.

    “I remember when I had my daughter and I wanted to take her somewhere with my family when they came to visit us in Italy. I couldn’t do much with my daughter on our first outing. I had to give her to my sister while I was just taking pictures and making videos,” he said.

    The 25-year-old football star, widely regarded as one of Africa’s top strikers, said such experiences have made him long for the normalcy he enjoyed before fame.

    “Just like I said, fame is boring,” he reiterated.

  • Morata to join Como after Osimhen signing

    Morata to join Como after Osimhen signing

    Álvaro Morata

    Spanish striker Álvaro Morata is set to leave Galatasaray for Como, following the Turkish club’s successful agreement to sign Victor Osimhen from Napoli on a permanent basis.

    According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Morata’s proposed move to the Italian side has been on hold for more than a month pending the completion of Galatasaray’s deal for the Nigerian international.

    Romano confirmed via X (formerly Twitter):

    “Álvaro Morata, now set to join Como from Galatasaray as soon as all documents for Osimhen deal will be signed next week.

    “Morata has been waiting for Como for one month… and now, all set.”

    Como and Morata have already reached a full agreement on personal terms, paving the way for his return to Serie A, where he previously featured for Juventus and AC Milan.

    The 31-year-old’s move comes as Galatasaray prepare to welcome Osimhen, whose transfer from Napoli marks one of the summer’s biggest deals in Turkish football.

  • Napoli and Galatasaray in final talks over €75m Osimhen transfer

    Napoli and Galatasaray in final talks over €75m Osimhen transfer

    Turkish giants Galatasaray are close to completing the permanent signing of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen after agreeing personal terms with the forward, who enjoyed a standout loan spell with the club last season.

    Fresh negotiations with Napoli are scheduled in the coming days as both clubs work toward finalising the deal. Galatasaray’s current proposal reportedly includes €40 million upfront, with an additional €35 million in structured installments. While Napoli are open to the total package, they are seeking revised payment terms and stronger bank guarantees.

    Osimhen, 26, has turned down a highly lucrative €160 million offer from Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, reaffirming his desire to continue his career in Europe. Despite interest from Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United, the Super Eagles forward has prioritized a return to Istanbul.

    Osimhen’s stellar campaign with Galatasaray last season—scoring 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 appearances—has made him a fan favorite and a key target for the Turkish champions.

    Napoli, meanwhile, are eyeing a move for Liverpool’s Darwin Núñez as a possible replacement, as the Serie A side prepares for life after their talismanic striker.

  • Napoli turn down Galatasaray’s offer despite meeting Osimhen clause

    Napoli turn down Galatasaray’s offer despite meeting Osimhen clause

    Napoli have turned down a €75 million offer from Turkish champions Galatasaray for Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, despite the bid reportedly meeting the player’s release clause, according to multiple sources including Nigerian journalist Onyebuchi Onokala (Buchi Laba).

    The Serie A club’s refusal is understood to be a strategic move to push Osimhen toward a more lucrative transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, who have also expressed interest and are prepared to meet the financial terms in full.

    Osimhen, 26, has reportedly agreed personal terms with Galatasaray and expressed a clear desire to remain in European football following a previous loan spell in Turkey. However, Napoli continue to resist the Turkish side’s proposal, with reports suggesting they are holding out for an upfront payment, rather than the structured instalment plan Galatasaray offered.

    Onokala posted via his X (formerly Twitter) account, “Napoli officially turns down Galatasaray €75m third offer for Victor Osimhen. The official release clause figure.”

    Sources close to the Super Eagles striker claim he is not interested in a move to Saudi Arabia and has already informed Napoli of his decision. Furthermore, Osimhen has reportedly told the club that he will not report for pre-season training under newly appointed manager Antonio Conte, intensifying the standoff.

    Earlier, Sky Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio confirmed Galatasaray were frontrunners after agreeing personal terms with Osimhen, but Napoli’s reluctance to accept staggered payments has stalled progress.

    In England, Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Manchester United have pulled back from pursuing the striker. Arsenal are believed to be targeting other positions, while United have turned their focus to Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, citing Osimhen’s high wage demands as a concern.

    Despite mounting pressure from the player and interest from multiple clubs, Napoli remain adamant on dictating the terms of his exit.

  • Al Hilal, Galatasaray battle for Osimhen as Napoli hold firm

    Al Hilal, Galatasaray battle for Osimhen as Napoli hold firm

    Victor Osimhen

    The transfer saga surrounding Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen appears to be approaching its conclusion, with Galatasaray and Al Hilal leading the race for his signature amid growing speculation and time constraints.

    Osimhen, currently on holiday, is expected to return to Napoli next week. Despite reports linking him to several top clubs, he has made it clear that he prefers a permanent move to Galatasaray, where he impressed during a loan spell last season by scoring 37 goals in 41 appearances.

    According to Nigerian journalist Onyebuchi Onokala, Osimhen has formally expressed his intent to remain in Istanbul. “Victor James Osimhen says YES to Galatasaray,” Onokala confirmed on Monday.

    While Napoli are pushing to retain the striker, sources indicate the player has reiterated his desire to leave. Galatasaray have already tabled an opening bid of €50 million plus €5 million in add-ons, according to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, though Napoli are holding out for Osimhen’s €75 million release clause.

    Negotiations remain ongoing, with Saudi Pro League giants Al Hilal also still in the mix. Despite being ready to meet the release clause, Al Hilal have yet to secure a personal agreement with Osimhen, according to L’Équipe. The club is reportedly considering alternatives including Dusan Vlahovic, Youssef En-Nesyri, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

    Meanwhile, Napoli are making a late attempt to reconcile with the forward. As reported by Il Mattino, club officials, including coach Antonio Conte, have re-established contact with Osimhen, exploring the possibility of reintegrating him into the squad if a transfer fails to materialise.

    Despite the outreach, Osimhen’s preference remains clear. Reports from Corriere dello Sport and Rudy Galetti suggest the striker has ruled out a move to the Premier League, turning down interest from Manchester United and Liverpool, and prioritising a return to Galatasaray—attracted by guaranteed UEFA Champions League football and a key role.

    With Juventus opting for Jonathan David and Premier League interest cooling, Osimhen’s options appear limited, making the Turkish champions his most likely destination. Should no agreement be reached soon, Napoli expect him back for pre-season on July 15.

  • Osimhen’s exit options shrink as Juve close in on David

    Osimhen’s exit options shrink as Juve close in on David

    Victor Osimhen

    Napoli forward Victor Osimhen may be facing limited transfer options this summer, as Juventus move closer to signing Jonathan David on a free transfer.

    Juventus, one of the clubs previously linked with a move for Osimhen, are now in advanced talks to sign the Canadian striker following the expiration of his contract with French side Lille.

    According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, negotiations between Juventus and David’s representatives have progressed rapidly, with the 24-year-old likely to be unveiled soon.

    David, who has scored 37 goals and registered 15 assists in 83 appearances for Lille, is being lined up as a potential replacement for Dusan Vlahovic, whose future in Turin remains uncertain amid transfer speculation.

    Jonathan David

    Osimhen, who has openly expressed interest in leaving Napoli, has seen several top European suitors cool their pursuit, and Juventus’ shift in focus toward David could further limit his options for a move this summer.

    The Nigerian international is still under contract at Napoli, but the club is open to selling him for the right price.

    With Juventus potentially off the table, Osimhen’s camp may need to explore new destinations if a transfer is to materialize ahead of the 2025/26 season.