Emmanuel Amunike lauds Victor Osimhen’s choice for Galatasaray stay

By Monsurah Olatunji

Former Nigeria international Emmanuel Amunike has praised Victor Osimhen for opting to remain at Galatasaray during the January transfer window.

Amunike played a pivotal role in Osimhen’s early development, guiding him to help Nigeria secure victory at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile. Having witnessed Osimhen’s progress from a young age, Amunike was pleased to see his former protégé make a calculated decision to stay at Galatasaray.

Despite enjoying an outstanding season with Napoli the previous year, Osimhen’s transfer saga was far from over as a potential move to Chelsea fell through on transfer deadline day, leading him to join Galatasaray on a season-long loan in the summer.

His impressive performances in Turkey, however, kept him in the spotlight during the January transfer window, with clubs like PSG, Arsenal, and Manchester United reportedly interested.

Despite having a clause in his loan agreement that would have allowed for a January exit, the 26-year-old opted to remain with Galatasaray until the end of the season. A decision that Amunike wholeheartedly supports.

In an interview with Africafoot, Amunike lauded Osimhen for his maturity in staying with the Turkish giants, stressing the positive impact of the fans’ warm reception in shaping his decision.

“I think he made the right decision to stay at Galatasaray during the winter transfer window and not rush into transfers, despite multiple interests,” Amunike said.

“He has been massively welcomed and appreciated in Turkey, and it is only important that he thanks them with gratitude.

?He was able to regain his full potential, and all of this is due to the fact that he was given a chance when he fell out of favor with the people of Naples.”

Osimhen’s decision to stay at Galatasaray marks a significant moment in his career as he continues to thrive in the Turkish Super League, with Amunike’s support further validating the wisdom behind the choice.