Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen netted his 37th goal for Galatasaray as his loan spell from Napoli came to an end, contributing to the Turkish giants’ 2-0 win over Istanbul Başakşehir in their final match of the 2024/2025 season at RAMS Park on Saturday.
The 26-year-old Nigerian forward, starting in manager Okan Buruk’s starting XI, played 87 minutes in what could be his farewell appearance for the newly crowned Süper Lig champions.
Osimhen scored in the 81st minute, heading in Kaan Ayhan’s cross from the right wing at the far post to double Galatasaray’s lead after Dries Mertens had given them the advantage with a 17th-minute penalty.
The victory marked Galatasaray’s 10th consecutive win across all competitions, with Osimhen finishing his remarkable loan spell with 37 goals in 41 appearances. His prolific form played a pivotal role in securing Galatasaray’s historic 25th league title and Turkish Cup double.
Despite his match-winning contribution, Osimhen picked up a yellow card in the second minute of first-half stoppage time, though it did little to overshadow what was likely an emotional evening for the striker and the Galatasaray faithful. Earlier this week, Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk had spoken about the uncertainty surrounding Osimhen’s future, stating, “The player will decide about his future. He made an incredible contribution here. We need to respect him, but we are hopeful that he will stay with us.” Galatasaray fans have been running creative campaigns to persuade the Nigerian striker to stay, including a heartfelt message displayed on a Times Square billboard in New York City as part of their ongoing #staywithus campaign.
Osimhen, however, has kept quiet about his future, choosing to enjoy the celebrations with his teammates and family, including a touching moment with his daughter Hailey following their title-clinching victory over Kayserispor.
In the match, RAMS Başakşehir created several chances, including Ömer Ali Şahiner’s header in the 51st minute from Deniz Türüç’s cross, which Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera saved. Figueiredo also went close in the 54th minute, his shot from the left diagonal going wide of the post.
Galatasaray responded with chances of their own, as Ahmed Kutucu tested Başakşehir’s goalkeeper Muhammed Şengezer with a long-range shot in the 65th minute, forcing a save.
With his loan spell now over, Osimhen’s future is still up in the air, but his legacy at Galatasaray and his impact on Turkish football during this historic season will not be forgotten by the club’s supporters.
