Galatasaray S.K. striker Victor Osimhen has opened up about the final phase of his time at SSC Napoli, saying he was unfairly treated despite playing a major role in the club’s success.
Osimhen was instrumental in Napoli’s historic 2022/23 Serie A title win under Luciano Spalletti, finishing as the league’s top scorer and helping secure the club’s first championship in more than 30 years. However, his form declined the following season amid uncertainty surrounding his future.
Although the 27-year-old signed a contract extension in December 2023, he revealed there had been a prior gentleman’s agreement allowing him to leave the next summer — an understanding he claims was not honored.
“We had a gentleman’s agreement that I could move the following summer, but it wasn’t fully respected,” Osimhen said, according to Football Italia.
“They tried to direct my future elsewhere — go here, go there. After all the sacrifices I made to build my career, I couldn’t accept being treated that way. I’m not a puppet,” he added.
The Nigeria international later completed a €75 million permanent move to Galatasaray after an initial loan spell.
Osimhen also disclosed that Juventus F.C. made a strong approach for him in 2024. He said the club’s former sporting director, Cristiano Giuntoli, personally reached out before negotiations with Galatasaray advanced.
“Yes, there was interest,” Osimhen said. “When Juventus call, you always listen. I spoke with representatives of the club, but I knew Napoli’s president would not sanction the move.”
Now flourishing in Turkey, Osimhen has become a key figure for Galatasaray, scoring 15 goals and providing three assists in 22 appearances as Okan Buruk’s side chase a fourth consecutive league title.
