Victor Osimhen has said to “disregard” a controversial statement from Nigeria’s Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle on his future at Galatasaray. Chelle had confirmed that Osimhen will not be available for Nigeria’s upcoming friendlies against Portugal and Poland due to the striker’s situation at the club.
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In a statement made after Nigeria’s historic fourth Unity Cup title after beating Jamaica 3-0 on Saturday, Chelle said: “We will miss two players because Victor Osimhen, he had maybe to change a club, so I prefer that he stays, because if you play and you are not at hundred percent, this is not good.”
Osimhen quickly took to social media to clarify the statement. The Super Eagles forward revealed the coach’s statement had been “taken out of context” and he has had a conversation with the French-Malian tactician.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion,” Osimhen wrote per ESPN.
“He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games, and never intended to create any controversy.
“I appreciate the conversation, the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing to work with him.
“He is a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.”
Osimhen, 27, completed a permanent move to Galatasaray for a transfer fee of €75 million last summer after a successful loan spell, but his future at the club remains a topic of discussion for football fans and experts. The Nigerian forward has recently been linked to top clubs in Europe, including Arsenal, Juventus, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. 2025/26 UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain are also reportedly interested in his signature to reunite with his former Napoli teammate Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
However, Galatasaray have publicly maintained that Osimhen was not for sale for any fee less than €150 million. The Turkish champions are also keen to retain the 27-year-old who led them to a fourth consecutive title win this season. Gala are reportedly in a long-term contract negotiations with the star forward that could tie him with the club until 2029.
