Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has opened up on his turbulent final months at Napoli, saying he was treated “like a dog” before sealing his move to Galatasaray, despite strong interest from Juventus.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Osimhen confirmed that Juventus, through then sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, attempted to sign him in 2024 before he initially joined Galatasaray on loan — a deal later made permanent.
“Yes, I could have been at two other top Serie A clubs,” Osimhen said, revealing he held talks with Juventus but believed Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis would block the move.
The 25-year-old was instrumental in Napoli’s 2022–23 Serie A title triumph under Luciano Spalletti, finishing as the league’s top scorer. However, relations soured the following season.
In September 2023, Napoli posted a TikTok video mocking Osimhen after he missed a penalty against Bologna — an incident he described as a breaking point.
“Something broke,” he said. “Anyone can miss a penalty. Napoli did it only to me, with certain insinuations. I was the victim of racist insults, and I made my decision.”
Although he signed a contract extension in December 2023, Osimhen claimed there was a gentleman’s agreement allowing him to leave the following summer — one he believes was not honoured.
“They tried to send me anywhere to play… Go here, go there. I’m not a puppet,” he added.
He also revealed that new Napoli coach Antonio Conte urged him to stay in 2024, but he had already decided to move on.
Now in his second season in Istanbul, Osimhen says he has rediscovered happiness.
“I found a club and a city that I love,” he said, as Galatasaray prepare to face Juventus in a Champions League knockout play-off first leg.
