17.02.2026 13:51
Victor Osimhen drew attention in an interview with the Italian press before the Juventus match, stating about his time at Napoli, "They treated me like a dog, I am not a puppet"; he emphasized that he is happy again at Galatasaray.
Galatasaray's Nigerian star Victor Osimhen made striking statements to the Italian press ahead of the crucial match against Juventus in the Champions League. His remarks about his time at Napoli ignited headlines.
"I AM NOT A PUPPET"
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Osimhen made harsh comments regarding his departure from Napoli. The star striker expressed that De Laurentiis did not keep his promise regarding the transfer,
"We had a gentleman's agreement that I could leave during the summer break, but the promise was not fully kept. They tried to send me everywhere. They treated me like a dog. Go here, go there, do this, do that… I have worked hard to advance my career, and I could not accept such treatment. I am not a puppet." he stated.
Osimhen noted that the relationship soured after a video shared by Napoli on social media, and he also mentioned that he was subjected to racist insults.
GALATASARAY'S WORDS: I FELL IN LOVE FROM THE FIRST DAY
Describing his arrival process in Istanbul, the Nigerian forward praised the atmosphere he found at Galatasaray.
"I found a club and a city that I love. As soon as I arrived in Istanbul, you understand why everyone who has played here falls in love with the team and the people. I have never experienced anything like this before." he said. Emphasizing that they also want to make an impact in Europe, Osimhen stated that they are ambitious in the Champions League.
JUVENTUS CONFESSION
Osimhen confirmed that Juventus had previously shown interest in him, drawing attention with his words, "When Juve calls you, you need to sit down and listen." However, he expressed that the transfer did not happen at that time.
"I AM ONE OF THE BEST"
Addressing the comparisons made about him, the star player stated, "If I am not number one, I am number two, or at worst, I am number three." asserting his claim.
Osimhen's strong statements before Galatasaray hosts Juventus in a huge match at RAMS Park this evening have resonated widely in Italy.