Nigeria’s ace striker Victor Osimhen says he is set to elevate Galatasaray to new heights in the UEFA Champions League, asserting, “It’s time to make our mark in the most prestigious games.”
After excelling for Lille and Napoli, the 26-year-old forward returns to Europe’s elite competition donning Galatasaray’s yellow-and-red, where he has quickly become a favourite of the faithful. He finalised his transfer this summer following a brilliant season-long loan in 2024/25.
The Super Eagles forward, in an interview with UEFA cited by PUNCH Online on Tuesday, said, “I spoke with the chairman when I arrived here, and we agreed that we want to establish ourselves in the Champions League. Osimhen: “We’ve ruled the Turkish league for years, but now we want to demonstrate that we can vie among the best in Europe.”
The Nigerian’s aspiration reflects his unyielding spirit, a defining characteristic of his rise from modest beginnings in Olusosun, Lagos, to the top of world football.
“I came from a very disadvantaged background. Olusosun forged me. It instilled perseverance,” Osimhen recalled. “Whenever I go home, I visit to express my gratitude and remind young kids that if I could succeed out of there, they can too.” His story has energised millions across Africa, combining raw talent with determination. That same drive, he says, fuels his commitment to Galatasaray. “When I arrived in Istanbul, I had never witnessed anything like that before — thousands of fans at the airport at 3 am,” he said. “It gives you that passion to give your all for the badge. I absolutely adore this club and I’m ready to face every challenge with them—the good, the bad, and the ugly.”
Osimhen’s journey continues to echo that of his idol, Didier Drogba, who also left his imprint at Galatasaray before ending his career as a Champions League great.
“In football, my hero was Drogba. I watched him and studied how he played and lived. I tried to incorporate his qualities into my own game,” he said. “In life, my biggest inspiration was my brother; he taught me how to strive and never give up.” Now, with Galatasaray seeking European recognition, Osimhen believes the team’s revival can restore Turkish football’s honour on the continental stage.
“We are the premier club in Turkey, and one of the greatest in the world. “Now, we want to validate it in the Champions League,” he added.
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