Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha has offered guidance to Victor Osimhen as speculation grows about the forward’s next move following his record-breaking loan spell at Galatasaray.
Speaking to Turkish broadcaster TRT Spor via Haberler, the former Fenerbahçe playmaker encouraged Osimhen to consider the emotional and professional satisfaction he has found in Turkey, suggesting that staying at Galatasaray could be a wise decision, even if it requires personal sacrifices.
“Turkey is a great place to play and live football,” Okocha said. “Sometimes, you may need to make sacrifices when making decisions in football. Osimhen had a great season at Galatasaray. Ultimately, he is happy there. Why shouldn’t he stay with the team? I love Turkey. He loves it too.”
Osimhen, who recently concluded his loan spell from Napoli, scored his 37th goal of the season in Galatasaray’s 2-0 win over İstanbul Başakşehir on Saturday, ending a sensational campaign that saw the Turkish giants claim a league and cup double.
Galatasaray’s head coach, Okan Buruk, acknowledged that the player’s future remains uncertain but praised his contribution, expressing hope that Osimhen would stay with the club. Meanwhile, Galatasaray fans have launched a global #staywithus campaign, which included a billboard message in Times Square.
Although Osimhen has yet to comment publicly on his future, his agent has reportedly received a new contract offer from Galatasaray worth €15m per year, a €3m increase on his current earnings, which would make him the highest-paid player in the club’s history.
Asked whether he had any inside knowledge on Osimhen’s next destination, Okocha remained reserved. “I don’t know,” he replied. “Wherever he decides to go, I wish him the best.”
Okocha, who played for Fenerbahçe between 1996 and 1998, also reflected on his own time in Turkey, calling it “a wonderful two years” and fondly remembering the fans and local cuisine. He concluded his remarks with a nod to his old club, telling fans, “The greatest is Fener.”
