Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has opened up on his decision to join Turkish side Galatasaray, emphasising the role of the coach and his personal connection with the team.
In an interview with Mikel Obi on The ObiOne Podcast posted on Thursday via YouTube, Osimhen revealed that many people doubted his move but said he was convinced after discussions with the coach.
“Most of them say they didn’t believe that Osimhen was going to come to their club. But for me, it was easy because the coach played a huge role in making me come here,” he said.
He added that he had been familiar with the club’s style of play before joining.
“I also watched their game because I’m very close to Dries. Even before I dreamed of coming here, I used to watch their game a lot,” he explained.
Osimhen further stated that the club’s vision aligned with his ambitions.
“When I spoke with the coach, he told me about the project and what the club had set for itself this season. I think we have the same mindset,” he said.
The forward also described himself as fitting into the club’s identity. “
The symbol of the club is a lion, and I think I fall into this category in terms of the way I play and how I’ve survived through life’s journey. So for me, it was quite easy to accept this club,” he added.
‘I Am My Own Critic’ – Osimhen
Osimhen also spoke about his constant drive for self-improvement, revealing that he critiques his own performances rather than focusing on public opinions.
“I am my own critic. That’s why I don’t really care about the negative things people say about me online,” he stated.
The striker admitted to being tough on himself after missing goal-scoring opportunities. “Most of the time, I miss chances I was supposed to score but then net unbelievable goals. I always feel like I can do more,” he said.
Reflecting on a recent game against Tottenham, he expressed his dissatisfaction despite scoring twice.
“I feel like I could have gotten five goals, but I got just two. I wasn’t really happy about it, but my team won, which is the most important thing,” he explained.
Osimhen also shared how teammates often push him to do better.
“Andries came to me, asking, ‘Why don’t you take the ball?’ Then the goalkeeper, Muslera, also asked why I missed those chances,” he recalled.
Despite his success, Osimhen admitted that he is still evolving as a player.
“I get home, watch the highlights again, and think, ‘Victor, you could have done this or that.’ I am still a work in progress,” he said.
Looking back on his career, he acknowledged his growth since his U-17 days. “I’ve really improved a lot and become one of the very best in my position. But I still have a lot to learn,” he concluded.