Victor Osimhen has officially landed in Istanbul to complete his high-profile move to Galatasaray.
The Nigerian striker, signed for a record-breaking €75 million from Napoli, arrived late Wednesday night to a hero's welcome, with thousands of passionate Galatasaray supporters flooding Atatürk Airport to greet him.
His arrival was closely followed by hundreds of thousands online, with live tracking of his private jet on FlightRadar24 becoming a nationwide obsession.
The 26-year-old, who starred for Galatasaray during a loan spell last season with 37 goals and seven assists in 40 appearances, did not hide his emotion upon his return.
“I’m home. This is where I want to be. I’m happy to be here, to be back,” Osimhen told reporters and fans. He added, “Look at the crowd, look at the people following the plane. I feel great to be here.”
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During the emotionally charged arrival, Osimhen stepped out of his vehicle to personally greet two disabled fans, further endearing himself to the supporters nearby.
Despite interest from other major European and Middle Eastern sides, Osimhen made it clear that Galatasaray was always his priority:
“This has been the only thing on my mind since the beginning of the year. Now it's time to focus. I’ll do my best to achieve the goals of our coach and the club.”
He went on to thank club president Abdullah Kavukcu, sporting director George Gardi, and manager Okan Buruk for securing the move:
“As I always say: The story continues. I’m happy to continue this story with Galatasaray.”
Osimhen's transfer to Galatasaray comfortably shatters the Turkish record for the most expensive signing, previously held by Youssef En-Nesyri’s €19.5m move to Fenerbahçe last summer. Galatasaray, though, have already taken a major step towards recouping some of the money spent to bring Osimhen back to Istanbul.
Osimhen also praised the fans, whose sheer numbers and energy turned his airport reception into a festival:
“So many people came just to see one player. Galatasaray fans are the best in the world. I will strive to give my best on the pitch for them this season.”
The club is expected to unveil him officially in the coming days in what will likely be a grand ceremony at the Rams Park.
Having already etched his name into Galatasaray folklore last season, Osimhen now returns with a permanent contract and a renewed hunger to deliver more silverware. As he put it, “Solo il Gala”— only Galatasaray.
