Galatasaray coach praises Osimhen’s adaptation amid uncertain long-term interest

After a turbulent summer, Victor Osimhen has found his stride in Turkey, winning over Galatasaray fans, legends, and management with his standout performances.

Galatasaray assistant head coach Ismael Garcia has shared insights into Victor Osimhen’s character since joining the Turkish champions on loan after a fallout with his parent club Napoli.

Despite a challenging summer transfer window, Osimhen has settled well in Turkey, with fans, legends, and club hierarchy consistently praising the Super Eagles striker’s performances.

Speaking on Osimhen’s attitude and how he has adapted, Garcia told ESPN, “He has been smart and humble, coming to our club.

“He came in a smart way, trying to be a part of it, not as a typical star. He was not expecting the club to adapt to him, but he has been very humble and hard-working.”

Garcia noted the cultural similarities between southern Italy and Turkey, which has helped Osimhen adapt.

“He’s come from a part of Italy in the south which is passionate, which is very close culturally to Turkey. It has not been a big change,” he opined.

“He was a key part in the Scudetto, and now he is coming to a winning club. It is not easy to win the Super Lig back-to-back. He is a winner; that makes it simple and smooth.”

Meanwhile, Turkish football journalist Kaan Bayazit has advised Galatasaray not to sign Osimhen permanently after his loan spell ends, mainly due to finances and squad balance for the Turkish club.

“If I was an accountant I would say, ‘don’t do it,’” he said when asked if Galatasaray will aim to keep the striker beyond his loan,” the journalist said.

“Galatasaray have Mauro Icardi, so they should spend that money on a different position to center-forward,” adds Bayazit. “One reason it was a really surprising move was that they have great strikers but no star wingers.

“Fans were very critical before Osimhen happened as there was no star winger. They are now happy, but as a puzzle piece fitting in, it doesn’t make sense.”