Nigeria Players Abroad
Nihat Kahveci surprised by Victor Osimhen’s blistering start at Galatasaray
By: Monsurah Olatunji
Former Beşiktaş forward Nihat Kahveci has expressed astonishment at the blazing start to the season by Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, following his move to Galatasaray.
The 25-year-old joined the club on a season-long loan from Napoli during the summer and has quickly become a fan favorite, impressing with his goal-scoring abilities and overall performances.
Initially, there were concerns that Osimhen’s arrival might spark rivalry, jealousy, or competition with the club’s star striker, Mauro Icardi. However, the two players have formed a lethal partnership, working in harmony for the good of the team.
In his first three games for Galatasaray, Osimhen made an immediate impact, registering two goals and three assists—becoming the first player since Bafetimbi Gomis in 2017 to contribute at least four goals in his opening three appearances for the club.
Since then, Osimhen’s form has been nothing short of sensational, with eight goals and four assists in nine appearances for Okan Buruk’s side. His performances have helped Galatasaray maintain their dominance in the Süper Lig and remain a formidable force in the UEFA Europa League this season.
Osimhen’s latest achievements include scoring twice in Galatasaray’s thrilling 3-2 win over Tottenham in the Europa League on Thursday, before repeating the feat with another brace in their 3-2 victory over Samsunspor in the Turkish Süper Lig on Sunday.
Impressed by the Nigerian’s remarkable form, Kahveci could hardly believe how seamlessly Osimhen has fit into the team. The former Turkish international joked that Osimhen’s connection with the club felt as if he had been a Galatasaray player for years.
“We really need to look into Osimhen’s childhood,” Kahveci said during an interview on Kontraspor’s YouTube channel via Haber Sarı Kırmızı.
“I think he was born in Florya! It feels like he’s been at Galatasaray for 10 years and we just didn’t know about it.
“Can you really play with such a sense of belonging? The goals he’s scoring, his dedication, his goal celebrations, and even his statements—they all reflect a deep connection with the club,” Kahveci added.
