Victor Osimhen's Record Chase for Nigeria Sparks Club Fears, Says Galatasaray Manager

Image: Victor Osimhen/ Galatasaray Manager Okan Buruk

 

Following Nigeria's recent World Cup qualifying performances, the focus has turned sharply towards striker Victor Osimhen, whose international duties are causing significant anxiety for his club manager.

Galatasaray’s coach, Okan Buruk, has openly expressed his trepidation whenever his star forward departs for national team assignments with Nigeria. In comments reported by Habersarikirmizi, Buruk revealed a sense of fear that extends beyond normal footballing concerns.

“Well, we are starting to get scared when we send Osimhen to the national team, not just because his plane window might break,” Buruk stated, alluding to a recent minor travel incident. He elaborated on the broader anxieties, citing “the toughness of the match, the bad pitches,” adding that “every time we send him off, we are afraid for the players. We are always scared, actually.”

Buruk's comments underscore the constant worry for a club that relies heavily on its key asset. His concern highlights the delicate balance top clubs must strike between supporting international duties and protecting their multi-million euro investments from potential injury or fatigue.

The Nigerian striker delivered a stunning hat-trick against Benin, a performance that not only secured a vital victory but also etched his name deeper into Nigerian football history. The three goals propelled him to second place on Nigeria's all-time scoring chart, with his tally now standing at 29 goals. He now sits just eight goals behind the legendary Rashidi Yekini, who scored 37 times in 62 appearances.

Osimhen's landmark achievement represents a crucial step forward for the Super Eagles in their quest to reach the global stage. Although the team did not directly qualify from their group, Osimhen’s prolific form provides a massive boost as they prepare for a challenging four-team CAF playoff. Success in this mini-tournament would keep their hopes alive, granting a chance to advance to the final FIFA Inter-Confederation Play-Off.