Victor Osimhen: Nigeria and Galatasaray striker to become first foreign star to appear in Turkish movies

Victor Osimhen has barely kicked off his first full season at Galatasaray, but the Nigerian striker is already attracting headlines for reasons beyond football, Soccernet.ng reports.

Fresh from completing the most expensive transfer in Turkish football history, the 26-year-old could be preparing to add ‘film star' to his glittering résumé.

Osimhen, who scored 37 goals and provided eight assists during his loan spell in Istanbul last season, played a key role in helping Galatasaray lift both the league and cup titles. 

The former Napoli striker has already featured this term, making an appearance in the club’s 3-0 victory over Fatih Karagümrük, and is tipped to earn his first start against Kayserispor on Sunday.

But it is away from the pitch that Osimhen, who was at the centre of a Mosque-renaming controversy last week, has generated his most recent buzz.

The Super Eagles forward was recently spotted in conversation with Şahan Gökbakar, one of Türkiye’s most celebrated comedians and the creator of the box-office hit “Recep İvedik” series.

Their lively exchange quickly went viral after Gökbakar jokingly asked the striker if he fancied a role in his films. Osimhen’s equally playful positive response, coupled with Gökbakar’s promise of “Of course!”, has since fuelled speculation about a possible crossover between football and cinema.

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Turkish media reports suggest that if the project materialises, Osimhen could become the first foreign player to appear on the big screen wearing Galatasaray colours.

For the club, such a move would be welcomed, with officials seeing opportunities to further enhance both the striker’s personal brand and the team’s global profile.

Beyond his goalscoring exploits, Osimhen’s charisma and popularity have made him a commercial magnet in Türkiye. He is already in demand for endorsements, advertising campaigns, and social media collaborations. A move into film would only strengthen his growing influence off the field.

For now, Galatasaray fans will hope their record signing remains focused on delivering more goals as they chase domestic and European glory.

Galatasaray are among the early pacesetters in the Turkish Super Lig with the champions boasting the maximum six points having won both of their first two matches.

The Lions have also sealed their place in the group stage of the UEFA Champions League.