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According to a report by Daily Post on Friday, October 16, 2026, former Turkey international Volkan Demirel has described Victor Osimhen as the greatest striker in Turkish football history, placing the Nigerian ahead of several high-profile forwards who have played in the Süper Lig.
Speaking to Sami Yen Gündem following Galatasaray’s Champions League defeat to Barcelona, Demirel praised Osimhen’s quality and suggested that Turkish football would struggle to attract another striker of his calibre.
“After this, a man of this caliber won’t come along either,” Demirel said.
The former goalkeeper acknowledged the contributions of renowned attackers such as Nicolas Anelka, Mamadou Niang, Bafétimbi Gomis, Alexander Sørloth and Mario Gómez. However, he insisted that Osimhen stands above them in terms of his overall quality and impact.
The Nigerian forward has earned widespread recognition through his performances for Galatasaray since arriving from Napoli. His combination of pace, physical strength, aerial ability and clinical finishing has made him a formidable opponent for defenders in Turkey.
Although Galatasaray suffered a disappointing 4-1 defeat against Barcelona in the Champions League, Demirel’s comments highlighted the high regard in which Osimhen is held, regardless of the team’s result.
The Super Eagles striker has quickly established himself as one of Galatasaray’s most important players, delivering impressive performances in domestic and European competitions while attracting praise from supporters and football figures.
Demirel’s assessment represents another significant compliment for Osimhen, whose influence in Turkish football continues to grow. The Nigerian will now aim to maintain his impressive form and help Galatasaray compete for domestic honours and make further progress in Europe.