Osimhen Staying was the Right Decision – Amuneke

Former Super Eagles star Emmanuel Amuneke has expressed his support for Victor Osimhen’s decision to remain at Galatasaray despite intense interest from top European clubs during the January transfer window, according PUNCH Sports Extra.

The Nigerian forward, who is currently on loan at the Turkish club from Napoli, opted to stay put rather than entertain offers from Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea. His choice was driven by a desire to honor his commitment to Galatasaray.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Africafoot, Amuneke praised Osimhen’s stance, highlighting the importance of stability in a player’s career. “I think he made the right decision to stay at Galatasaray during the winter transfer window and not rush into transfers, despite multiple interests,” he said. “He has been massively welcomed and appreciated in Turkey, and it is only important that he thanks them with gratitude. He was able to regain his full potential, and all this is due to the fact that he was given a chance when he quarrelled with the people of Naples.”

Osimhen secured a temporary switch to Galatasaray last summer without an option for a permanent deal following a fallout with Napoli’s management. His disagreement with the Italian club’s hierarchy led him to turn down potential moves to Chelsea and Saudi Arabia.

Despite having a clause in his contract that permitted an early departure in January, the 26-year-old honored his word and remained at the club. His decision was reinforced after he netted twice against Tottenham in a Europa League clash last November, following which he publicly reaffirmed his commitment to Galatasaray: “I will not leave in January; I am at Galatasaray until the end of the season. I do not know what Galatasaray and Napoli are talking about afterwards, but if they come to me, we will talk.”

The Nigerian international has been in sensational form for the Turkish league leaders, delivering 12 goals and four assists in 16 domestic matches. In European competition, he has also made a significant impact, contributing five goals and one assist in six Europa League outings.

Galatasaray’s head coach, Okan Buruk, previously acknowledged the existence of a mid-season exit clause but downplayed its significance, emphasizing Osimhen’s determination to see out the campaign. “There is a clause there, but it doesn’t matter; he said he will stay. There is a clause about transfers in January. This clause has different things,” Buruk stated in November 2024.

Meanwhile, Galatasaray’s efforts to secure Osimhen on a permanent basis have hit a roadblock. Napoli turned down a €65 million bid from the Turkish club, with club president Aurelio De Laurentiis insisting that the full €75 million release clause be met before any deal is considered.

Currently, Galatasaray sit atop the Super Lig table with 57 points, maintaining a six-point lead over their closest rivals, Fenerbahce. Their next challenge lies in the UEFA Europa League playoffs, where they are set to clash with Dutch side AZ Alkmaar.