Victor Osimhen has showered praise on teammate Mauro Icardi following the Argentine striker’s influential display in Galatasaray’s title-winning victory over Antalyaspor, as speculation over the futures of both forwards continues to intensify.
Galatasaray sealed the Turkish Süper Lig title with a 4-2 victory last weekend, with Icardi producing a standout moment late in the game. The former Inter Milan captain dribbled past two defenders before setting up Kaan Ayhan for the decisive fourth goal that ended Antalyaspor’s hopes of a comeback.
Osimhen, who had been substituted during stoppage time, described Icardi’s contribution as exceptional while speaking to the club’s media channel.
“What Icardi did was sensational. It showed the quality and talent he possesses,” the Nigerian striker said.
The Super Eagles star revealed he initially thought Icardi would attempt to score himself after beating the defenders.
“When he made that dribble, I said to myself, ‘That’s my captain.’ I believed he would shoot because I didn’t notice Kaan Ayhan making the run at first,” Osimhen explained.
He added that the move was so well executed that celebrations had already begun before the ball entered the net.
“It was an incredible play. That’s why I immediately ran to congratulate Icardi and also praised Kaan for finishing the move. Both players deserve credit for the goal,” he said.
Away from the celebrations, attention has shifted to the future of Galatasaray’s attacking stars, particularly Osimhen, who has attracted interest from several top European clubs following an impressive campaign.
Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek has, however, insisted the club has no intention of allowing the Nigerian striker to leave cheaply.
Speaking during the club’s title celebrations at RAMS Park, Özbek dismissed suggestions that Galatasaray could be tempted into selling the forward.
“If we decide to sell Osimhen today, I wouldn’t let him go for €100 million. Why would I?” Özbek said.
“He has contributed enormously both in terms of prestige and performances. Signing him was a major success for us.”
The club’s stance reflects its ambition to maintain a strong squad capable of competing consistently at the highest level in European football.
Meanwhile, uncertainty also surrounds Icardi’s future, with the Argentine reportedly attracting interest from Juventus ahead of the summer transfer window.
Reports in Turkey claim the striker, whose current contract expires this summer, is seeking a new two-year deal and assurances of a regular starting role alongside Osimhen in a two-man attack if he is to remain in Istanbul.
