Osimhen Reveals Why He Rejected Galatasaray’s Legendary No. 9 Jersey

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has revealed why he turned down Galatasaray’s iconic number nine jersey, opting instead to continue wearing the number 45 shirt for the upcoming season.

The Nigerian international recently completed a permanent move to the Turkish champions after an impressive loan spell that established him as one of the club’s most influential players.

Following his permanent transfer, many supporters expected Osimhen to inherit the prestigious number nine shirt, traditionally reserved for the team’s main striker and previously worn by Mauro Icardi.

However, the 27-year-old chose to remain with the number 45 jersey, saying personal sentiment played a greater role in his decision than commercial considerations.

According to Osimhen, the number has brought him good fortune since his arrival in Istanbul, and he sees no reason to part with it despite the appeal and status associated with the famous number nine shirt.

The prolific forward noted that while switching to the iconic jersey could have boosted shirt sales, he preferred to remain with the number that has become special to him during his time at the club.

Osimhen has enjoyed a highly successful spell with Galatasaray, emerging as a fan favourite through his consistent goalscoring performances and key contributions to the club’s achievements.

He recently continued his fine form by finding the back of the net in Galatasaray’s entertaining 3-3 pre-season draw against French side Rennes as the Turkish champions intensified preparations for the new campaign.