Osimhen snubs Galatasaray captaincy amid transfer talks, faces Turkish media criticism

Osimhen declined Galatasaray's captain and vice-captain offers after their 3-3 pre-season draw with Rennes on Sunday, August 3. Turkish journalist Haşmet Babaoğlu criticized him on Libero TV, saying he played "as if for the transfer market." Galatasaray has rejected transfer offers from other clubs for the Nigerian striker.

This matters to Nigerians as Osimhen remains Africa's top striker and a key Super Eagles player. His public rejection of leadership roles amid transfer talks signals potential dissatisfaction at Galatasaray, which could impact his national team form and readiness for upcoming qualifiers. Fans watch closely as his club situation directly affects Super Eagles preparations.

Galatasaray faces Villarreal in a pre-season friendly this weekend (August 9-10), where Osimhen is expected to feature. Observe whether he accepts any leadership role and how transfer talks evolve. With the Nigerian league season approaching, will he commit to Galatasaray or push for a move that could affect his availability for national duties?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/08/05/transfer-osimhen-under-fire-after-latest-match-for-galatasaray/