Victor Osimhen discusses his love for Galatasaray, Lagos upbringing, and Champions League ambitions in an exclusive UEFA interview
Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s prolific striker, has opened up about his journey from Lagos to Europe, his deep connection with Galatasaray, and his aspirations in the Champions League in an exclusive interview with UEFA.
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Osimhen reflected on his challenging childhood:
“I came from a very poor background. I’m the lastborn of seven. I lost my mum at a very young age, and my father passed in 2020. Before I became someone important, life was really tough. I had to live for myself and help my siblings, making sure we all came together to support our father after his wife passed away.”
He credited his upbringing in Olusosun, Lagos, for shaping him:
“It taught me life lessons that have guided me through my journey. That’s why whenever I’m in Nigeria, I go there to show gratitude and inspire young kids—if I could make it out of this place, I believe they can too.”
Osimhen also described the overwhelming support he has received from Galatasaray fans:
“I arrived in Istanbul, and I have never seen anything like this. Fans were at the airport tracking flights at two or three in the morning, sacrificing their sleep and time with family. That just fires you up to give everything for the badge. I absolutely love this club and am ready to go through everything with them—the good, the bad, and the ugly.”
Looking ahead, Osimhen shared his Champions League ambitions:
“We want to make a statement in Europe. We’ve dominated the league for years, but now it’s time to shine in the Champions League. It’s beautiful to play at this level, and we want the world to know that we can do something amazing.”
On the influences that shaped him, Osimhen highlighted his brother and football icon Didier Drogba:
“My brother inspired me to hustle hard, selling sports newspapers in Nigeria. In football, Didier Drogba was my hero. I tried to model my game after him and learn from his style and mindset. I attribute some of my success to the lessons I learned from both of them.”
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Osimhen’s journey from a humble Lagos neighborhood to the bright lights of Istanbul reflects not only his talent and determination but also his commitment to making a lasting impact at Galatasaray and on the European stage.
