Nigerian star Victor Osimhen continues to etch his name in the annals of Turkish football, cementing his status as one of the world's top strikers. In an unprecedented achievement for Galatasaray, the Nigerian international and former Napoli striker reached his 50th goal for the "Lions" in just 59 appearances, cementing his place in the hearts of Istanbul fans as the fastest player to reach this milestone since 2001.
Breaking the records of legends
Osimhen's achievement wasn't just a statistic; it shattered long-standing records. The Nigerian striker surpassed the previous record held by veteran Argentinian Mauro Icardi, who scored 50 goals in 68 matches. This numerical superiority reflects Osimhen's ferocious attacking prowess and his remarkable ability to adapt quickly to the demanding atmosphere of the Turkish league, thus overtaking many of the club's illustrious names.
From Naples to Istanbul: A game-changing deal
This fascinating story began in 2024 when Osimhen joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli. The move was considered one of the biggest surprises of the transfer market at the time, given the player's high market value and his previous African Player of the Year award. He quickly proved his worth, playing a direct and decisive role in leading the team to a Turkish league and cup double last season. This prompted the club's management to make the loan permanent at the start of the current season with a four-year contract, ensuring the continued strength of their attacking force.
Global and local impact
Osimhen's brilliance with Galatasaray transcends mere goal-scoring; it represents a qualitative leap in the competitiveness of the Turkish Super Lig. The presence of a player of his caliber enhances the league's marketing value and draws global attention to Turkish football. Historically, Galatasaray has been known for signing world-class stars like Gheorghe Hagi and Didier Drogba, and Osimhen continues this golden legacy, confirming that the club remains a preferred destination for top-tier players.
Terrifying numbers and a machine that never stops
In the language of numbers, which don't lie, Osimhen was crowned top scorer in the Turkish league last season with 26 goals, bringing his total to 37 goals in 41 matches across all competitions. His scoring prowess wasn't limited to last season; he has continued his success this season with the same momentum, scoring 13 goals in 18 appearances for the Turkish club so far, confirming his status as a key signing for the Istanbul giants.
