Nigeria Players Abroad
Galatasaray lean on Osimhen for one-third of their strength, says Yılmaz Vural
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Veteran Turkish manager Yılmaz Vural has hailed Victor Osimhen as the driving force of Galatasaray, insisting the Nigerian striker accounts for “one-third” of the team’s overall strength and identity.
Speaking to habersarikirmizi.com, Vural described Osimhen as virtually unstoppable when fully fit, stressing that his energy, physical dominance and match-winning ability place him far above any other player in the squad — including Argentine forward Mauro Icardi.
“Osimhen is one-third of Galatasaray’s players. He’s one of the most talented players ever to grace Turkey’s roster,” Vural said.
“The money paid for him is deserved. What he does in certain matches has nothing to do with tactics.”
Vural praised Osimhen’s relentless style of play, calling him a uniquely dynamic attacker who imposes himself in every phase of the game.
“He runs everywhere, he gets the ball, beats the goalkeeper and scores. His actions are purely down to skill. Even after scoring, he sprints away — there’s no stopping him. At such a high tempo, injuries can happen because he’s always pushing at full speed.”
Turning to Icardi, Vural argued that the former PSG striker cannot replicate Osimhen’s influence, especially as he continues to struggle physically after a prolonged injury spell.
“It’s impossible for Icardi not to feel psychologically affected,” he noted.
“He has been important in past championships, but after a long injury, players always struggle.
“He will never be an Osimhen; he simply cannot contribute as much. He no longer has the physical strength needed for a club with Galatasaray’s ambitions.”
Osimhen is expected to return from injury ahead of this weekend’s highly anticipated derby against Fenerbahçe, as Galatasaray look to maintain momentum in their title defence.
