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Former Napoli captain reveals why Victor Osimhen chose Galatasaray over Al-Hilal

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5 months ago

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Former Napoli captain Kalidou Koulibaly has revealed the reason Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen chose to play for Galatasaray over Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 26-year-old joined the Turkish Super Lig side on loan ahead of the 2024/2025 season and made his impact felt for Okan Buruk’s side.

Osimhen took home the League’s Golden Boot Award, whilst helping the Cimbom Aslan to win the Turkish Super Lig and the League Cup.

Victor Osimhen and Kalidou Koulibaly celebrate the victory at the end of the Serie A match between Sampdoria and Napoli at Stadio Luigi Ferraris, Genova. [Photo Credit/ Imagox Giuseppe Maffia].

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However, when the summer came, it was a tough decision for Osimhen to make as Al-Hilal submitted mouth-watering offers, all of which he turned down.

Instead, the 2023 CAF Player of the Year opted to pen a four-year deal with Galatasaray, choosing RAMS Park to be his home for the next four years.

Koulibaly won the Coppa Italia and the Italian Super Cup with Napoli before heading to Chelsea ahead of the 2022/2023 season – the same year Napoli won the league.

Victor Osimhen and Kalidou Koulibaly during the friendly football match between SSC Napoli and SS Teramo Calcio 1913 at stadio Patini in Castel di Sangro, Italy
Victor Osimhen and Kalidou Koulibaly during the friendly football match between SSC Napoli and SS Teramo Calcio 1913 at Stadio Patini in Castel di Sangro, Italy. [Photo Credit/ ImagoxCesare Purini].

Now captain of Al-Hilal, the AFCON 2022 winner revealed he was looking forward to playing alongside Osimhen in the Saudi Pro League, but ultimately, the love of Galatasaray fans won the former LOSC Lille man over.

“There was a way to feel, I frankly illustrated our reality in Saudi Arabia to Osimhen,” the 34-year-old said in an interview with Gazzetta.It.

“I explained to him that there is a limited or distorted perception of football, where there are thick players, from Cristiano Ronaldo down.

“He explained to me that Istanbul enthusiastically welcomed him and his family, and that there are strong ambitions. He made his choice, and I wish him the best,” the ex-Chelsea man concluded.

Victor Osimhen celebrates after scoring the second goal of his team with Mauro Icardi during the Turkish Super League derby match between Galatasaray and Besiktas at Rams Park Stadium in Istanbul
Victor Osimhen celebrates after scoring the second goal of his team with Mauro Icardi during the Turkish Super League derby match between Galatasaray and Besiktas at Rams Park Stadium in Istanbul. [Photo Credit/ ImagoxSeskimphoto].

Both players have enjoyed success in their respective journeys. Koulibaly has lifted the Saudi Pro League title, the Saudi Cup, and the Saudi Super Cup twice, while Victor Osimhen is settling into life as a permanent striker in Istanbul.

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