Okocha speaks on his preference for Osimhen’s move

Victor Osimhen

Okocha speaks on his preference for Osimhen’s move

Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha has intervened on the speculation surrounding Victor Osimhen’s future, urging the striker to consider staying at Galatasaray despite uncertainty over his next move.

Okocha, who played for Fenerbahçe from 1996 to 1998, believes Turkey is an excellent place to play and live football, and Osimhen’s happiness in the country could be a key factor in his decision.

“Turkey is a great place to play and live football,” Okocha said in an interview with TRT Sport. “Sometimes, you may need to make sacrifices when making decisions in football. Osimhen had a great season at Galatasaray. Ultimately, he is happy there. Why shouldn’t he stay with the team? I love Turkey. He loves it too.”

Osimhen’s loan spell at Galatasaray has been highly successful, with the striker scoring 37 goals in the season and helping the club secure a league and cup double. Galatasaray’s head coach, Okan Buruk, has expressed hope that Osimhen will remain with the club, despite uncertainty over his future.

Galatasaray fans have launched a global #staywithus campaign, including a billboard message in Times Square, to persuade Osimhen to stay. The club has also reportedly offered Osimhen a new contract worth €15m per year, a €3m increase on his current earnings.

When asked if he had any inside knowledge on Osimhen’s next destination, Okocha remained reserved, saying, “I don’t know. Wherever he decides to go, I wish him the best.”

Okocha fondly remembered his time in Turkey, calling it “a wonderful two years” and praising the fans and local cuisine. He concluded his remarks with a nod to his old club, Fenerbahçe, saying, “The greatest is Fener.”