Atlético Madrid head coach Diego Simeone has made a stunning admission about Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 27-year-old played all 90 minutes against Los Roji Blancos on Wednesday after limping off in Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 semi-final game against Morocco.
Osimhen missed Nigeria’s third-place clash against Egypt, but looked at the peak of his powers against Diego Simeone’s men.
While he didn’t find the back of the net, the former Napoli man constantly terrorised Atleti’s backline, creating two chances from absolutely nothing.
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Atlético Madrid boss lauds Victor Osimhen
Giuliano Simeone, Diego Simeone’s son, broke the deadlock inside four minutes at RAMS Park, but an own goal by Marcos Llorente, courtesy of a Rolland Sallai cut-back, levelled the score for Okan Buruk’s men on the 20th minute mark.
There were no further goals in the game, although Atletico Madrid had the upper hand against the home side.
After the game, the two-time La Liga-winning coach was impressed with Osimhen’s strength and ability in the air.
“Osimhen is very strong; he has always been like that in the air physically. He is very fast and very important for his team, so he is a very good footballer,” the Argentine said in quotes revealed by Esto Es Atleti.
Osimhen, who’s been linked with the three-time UEFA Europa League winners in the past, revealed his love for Simeone after the game.
“I love Diego Simeone, I’ve always been a fan of him,” the ex-LOSC Lille man said.
“I’ve had the opportunity to meet him a few times. They play aggressively and have a clear identity.
“Since the coach has been there for many years, the players are completely accustomed to the kind of game he wants.
“That’s why I’m putting so much emphasis on the performance we put out. Because Atlético Madrid is one of the best teams in the world, and even getting a draw against them shows that you’re on the right track.”
Galatasaray will travel to the Etihad to face Manchester City in seven days. Pep Guardiola’s side will qualify for the play-offs regardless of whatever happens in the game, but a win could help secure automatic qualification to the Champions League final sixteen.