Osimhen Runs Riot: Brace And Assist Power Galatasaray To 5-Star Erzurumspor Demolition

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen continued his blistering start to the new Süper Lig campaign on Friday night, scoring twice and providing an assist as defending champions Galatasaray cruised to a 4-0 victory over newly promoted Erzurumspor FK at the Kazım Karabekir Stadium.

Roland Sallai opened the scoring for Galatasaray in the 12th minute before Osimhen turned provider eight minutes later, setting up Yunus Akgün for the champions’ second goal.

The Super Eagles forward then got on the scoresheet himself in first-half stoppage time, giving Galatasaray a commanding 3-0 advantage.

Osimhen completed his brace with 10 minutes left on the clock, capping another outstanding individual display and underlining his importance to the Turkish giants.

The Nigerian’s latest performance extended his remarkable run of league goal contributions. The 27-year-old has now been directly involved in at least one goal in each of his last 14 league appearances for Galatasaray, registering 16 goals and six assists during that spell.

Osimhen had also scored twice in Galatasaray’s 2-2 draw against Çorum in their opening league fixture at RAMS Park.

His continued brilliance has also intensified speculation over a possible move to the Premier League. French outlet Foot Mercato reports that Arsenal have opened discussions with Galatasaray regarding a potential transfer, with manager Mikel Arteta reportedly keen to add another established striker to his squad alongside Viktor Gyökeres.

Osimhen finished last season with 30 goal contributions for Galatasaray and remains highly regarded by Arteta. However, negotiations are still at an early stage, with the player’s salary emerging as a potential stumbling block.

The Nigerian reportedly earns a net annual salary of €20 million at Galatasaray and is contracted with the club until 2029. Arsenal would be unlikely to match those wages, meaning Osimhen may have to accept a substantial reduction in salary should he decide to pursue a move to the Premier League.