Former Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho, has praised Victor Osimhen’s season-long loan move from Napoli to Galatasaray, calling it a brilliant signing for both the Turkish Super Lig and Galatasaray, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Portuguese tactician stressed Osimhen’s exceptional quality and skills, noting that the Nigerian forward is a game-changer for any team.
Mourinho further admitted that if he were managing a club with the financial muscle to spend €70-75 million, Osimhen would be the type of player he’d want in his squad.
“Osimhen is a great player. If I were at a club that could give €70-75 million, I would take him. I have a very good relationship with him. I just don’t like the way he throws himself down a lot,” Mourinho remarked, as quoted by BBO Sports.
The Special One’s connection with Osimhen traces back to their encounters in Serie A during Mourinho’s tenure at AS Roma. One standout moment came during a match when Mourinho had a brief but memorable conversation with the Napoli striker on the touchline.
Following the game, Mourinho compared Osimhen to Didier Drogba, one of Africa’s most successful forwards in recent times. This comparison deeply resonated with Osimhen, who appreciated the high praise coming from a manager of Mourinho’s calibre.
“To hear this kind of compliment from Mourinho, right in the middle of the game, for me, it’s an amazing feeling. Trust me, it’s an amazing feeling. Coming from someone like him—arguably the best in the world—it’s just the fuel I need to keep going,” Osimhen previously told Soccernet.ng Managing Editor, Lolade Adewuyi.
While Osimhen is yet to make his debut for Galatasaray, he made an immediate impact upon joining the Super Eagles camp, scoring in Nigeria’s 3-0 win over Benin Republic—his first goal since January.
As he returns to Istanbul, the 25-year-old striker will be eager to replicate his fine form and make a lasting impression in Turkey.