Osimhen was revealed to a boisterous reception in Istanbul on Wednesday night, officially becoming the most expensive player in Turkish football history after Galatasaray exercised his €75 million release clause at Napoli.
As a testament to the significance of his signing, thousands of Galatasaray supporters flocked to the Atatürk Airport and lined the streets to welcome his arrival.
The 26-year-old highlighted the emotional bond he already has with the club and its supporters in his first official interview with the team, saying Galatasaray is a place where he can be himself.
In an interview with Galatasaray’s official YouTube channel, Osimhen stated, “This is where I can express myself fully through my football and with everything that I am.”
The Nigerian international also expressed sincere gratitude to the important individuals who made the historic agreement possible. He gave credit to the Galatasaray leadership, which included head coach Okan Buruk, technical advisor George Gardi, and club president and vice president Abdullah Bey, for facilitating the deal.
“I sincerely appreciate everyone who put in the effort to get me here. He remarked, “I came because I feel good here, and I love this place.”
Osimhen, who was on loan at the Turkish team for the previous season, stated that the tremendous amount of love he received from Galatasaray fans during his stay in Istanbul had a role in his decision to make a permanent commitment.
As a testament to their steadfast commitment, he singled out the fans who followed his arrival flight in real time and turned up in force.
“I want to express my gratitude to all of the fans who came out to greet me after our flight. I think I’ll give it my all here and present myself in the best possible light,” he continued.
The former forward for Napoli stated that he is already excited to reunite with the fans in what he called his new football home.
The previous Turkish transfer record, which was held by Youssef En-Nesyri, who joined Fenerbahçe for €19.5 million, is easily surpassed by his €75 million price tag.
Osimhen is currently also ahead of former Galatasaray acquisitions like Nicolo Zaniolo (€15m), Gabriel Sara (€18m), and Mario Jardel (€17m).
