Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha has extended advisory remarks to Victor Osimhen amid increasing speculation concerning the forward’s prospective transfer following a record-setting loan tenure at Galatasaray, as reported by PUNCH Sports Extra.
In an interview with Turkish broadcaster TRT Spor, conducted via Haberler, the former Fenerbahçe midfielder counseled Osimhen to weigh the emotional and professional fulfillment experienced during his time in Turkey, recommending that remaining with Galatasaray could constitute a prudent course of action despite potential personal compromises.
“Turkey represents an excellent environment to pursue one’s football career,” Okocha stated. “Occasionally, making decisions in football necessitates certain sacrifices. Osimhen enjoyed a highly successful season at Galatasaray. Ultimately, he finds happiness there. There is no apparent reason why he should not continue with the club. I hold Turkey in high regard. He shares that sentiment.”
Osimhen recently concluded his loan agreement from Napoli, during which he recorded his 37th goal of the season in Galatasaray’s 2–0 victory against İstanbul Başakşehir on Saturday. His remarkable performance contributed to the club securing a domestic league and cup double.
Galatasaray’s head coach, Okan Buruk, has acknowledged the unresolved status of Osimhen’s future but commended his significant contributions to the team and conveyed optimism regarding his retention.
Concurrently, supporters of Galatasaray have initiated a grassroots campaign under the hashtag #staywithus, which notably featured a billboard display in New York City’s Times Square, advocating for the retention of Victor Osimhen.
To date, Mr. Osimhen has not issued any public statements regarding his prospective club affiliation for the forthcoming season. However, sources indicate that his representative has received a proposed contract extension from Galatasaray, reportedly valued at €15 million annually—reflecting an increase of €3 million over his current remuneration—positioning him as the highest-earning player in the club’s history.
When queried as to whether he possessed any privileged information concerning Mr. Osimhen’s impending transfer decision, Mr. Jay-Jay Okocha declined to speculate, stating, “I don’t know. Wherever he decides to go, I wish him the best.”
Mr. Okocha, who was affiliated with Fenerbahçe from 1996 to 1998, also reflected on his tenure in Turkey, describing it as “a wonderful two years,” and expressing fondness for both the club’s supporters and the local cuisine. He concluded his remarks by paying homage to his former club, declaring, “The greatest is Fener.”#newsafro_
