Victor Osimhen has opened up about the pivotal role played by Galatasaray fans and fellow Nigerian footballer Henry Onyekuru in shaping his experience at the Turkish club.
Since his arrival in Istanbul, Osimhen has been deeply moved by the relentless support of the Galatasaray faithful.
Whether walking the streets or dining in the city, the striker is greeted with love and admiration, which he says motivates him to give his all on the pitch.
“For me, the fans are everything,” Osimhen shared in an interview with Pooja Dissects. “That’s why anytime I go on the field, I play for them first. Scoring goals and winning games comes before my personal ambitions because their support inspires me.”
The 25-year-old also credited Onyekuru for offering crucial advice that has helped him connect with supporters on a deeper level. Onyekuru, who previously had multiple successful stints with Galatasaray, urged Osimhen to celebrate his goals in a way that resonates with the fans.
“Henry told me something that stuck with me. He said to always take a moment after scoring to celebrate with the fans. It’s simple but powerful. Now, when I celebrate, I let the fans take part in it, and it has brought us closer,” Osimhen revealed.
The Napoli loanee has since adopted a unique goal celebration ritual that involves orchestrating chants and gestures with the crowd. For Osimhen, this shared experience strengthens the bond between player and supporters, transforming every match into a collective triumph.
“They have this tradition where we clap, chant, and move our hands in sync. It’s amazing. It’s not just about me; it’s about giving them moments to remember,” Osimhen explained.
The Nigerian forward also emphasised the profound impact of the fans on the players, describing their connection as a driving force behind Galatasaray’s success.
“When you play for a club with fans like these, you’re not just playing for the team—you’re playing for a family. Their energy lifts us and makes us want to win for them,” he added.
Since joining the Yellow-reds on loan, Osimhen has notched 8 goals in nine appearances for the club. When he returns for international break, he will be hoping to continue from where he left off.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
