Jose Mourinho Praises Victor Osimhen After Galatasaray Move: Why the Transfer Is a Game-Changer for Turkish Football
Jose Mourinho’s days of acquiring top-tier talent at premium prices seem to be behind him. Once known for signing some of the world’s best players, Mourinho is now managing at clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, Roma, and Fenerbahce, where he has to work with a different caliber of player.
Fenerbahce, like much of the Turkish Super Lig, hosts several well-known veterans, such as Dusan Tadic, Edin Dzeko, Filip Kostic, and former Manchester United players Fred and Sofyan Amrabat. This has led to the league gaining a reputation as a haven for experienced players nearing the end of their careers.
In contrast, a recent high-profile move to Galatasaray highlights the Super Lig’s continued appeal. Victor Osimhen, a standout striker previously linked with Manchester United, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain, was recently loaned to Galatasaray.
Embed from Getty ImagesHis move reflects less on his abilities, which remain impressive, and more on Napoli’s handling of a prolonged transfer saga.
Napoli had demanded a staggering £155 million for Osimhen during Manchester United’s interest, prompting the Red Devils to shift their focus to Rasmus Hojlund instead.
Mourinho has expressed admiration for Osimhen, calling him a “fantastic player” and noting that if he were at a club with significant financial resources, he would have pursued the Nigerian striker.
Mourinho also took the opportunity to comment on Osimhen’s playing style, noting that he tends to go down easily, a habit he has previously discussed with the player.
Despite these criticisms, Mourinho acknowledges Osimhen’s talent and believes he will be a valuable asset for Galatasaray and the Turkish league.
Napoli’s decision to lower Osimhen’s release clause to £67 million before his loan move may well spark interest from other major clubs in the summer of 2025 if his performances continue to impress.
Jose Mourinho Praises Victor Osimhen After Galatasaray Move: Why the Transfer Is a Game-Changer for Turkish Football