Galatasaray President Denies Victor Osimhen Salary Owed Claims Amid Rumors
Galatasaray President Dursun Ozbek has issued a firm denial regarding widespread rumors that the Turkish football club owes salaries to Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen and other key players. The claims, which originated in Turkish media on February 23 and quickly spread through Nigerian outlets, alleged that Osimhen was owed two months' wages, leading to speculation about his happiness at the club.
President Ozbek's Strong Rebuttal
In a statement quoted by Haber Sari Kirmizi, Ozbek described the salary reports as "an insult to the professionalism of our players" and suggested they were designed to create internal crisis at Galatasaray. "If you make things up, you'll create crises like this. Galatasaray is an elite team made up of world-class footballers. You can't make these players play with just words," Ozbek declared.
The president emphasized the club's financial responsibility, stating: "If players don't receive their salaries for two or three months, they won't play. These kinds of reports are an insult to the professionalism of our players. There are bonus and incentive clauses, and we pay them all on time. Galatasaray has not defaulted on a single lira, not a single lira overdue."
Osimhen's Response and Contract Details
While Victor Osimhen did not directly address the salary rumors, the Super Eagles striker has clarified his position at Galatasaray amid reports of potential unhappiness. His muted celebrations during some February matches, particularly after scoring against Juventus, fueled speculation about his satisfaction with the club.
Osimhen explained that his restrained celebration against Juventus was out of respect for former manager Luciano Spalletti, who now coaches the Italian side, rather than any discontent with Galatasaray. The Nigerian forward has confirmed he remains happy playing for the Turkish champions.
The 2023 African Footballer of the Year earns €21 million annually at Galatasaray, comprising:
- Fixed salary: €15 million
- Image rights: €5 million
- Loyalty bonus: €1 million
This substantial package represents a significant commitment from Galatasaray, with Osimhen having rejected lower offers from top European clubs that wanted him to reduce the €12 million he earned at Napoli. The striker also turned down a massive €45 million per year offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal before choosing to continue his career in Turkey.
Media Amplification and Fan Reactions
The salary rumors gained traction after being reported by Turkiye Today and subsequently amplified by Nigerian media outlets. Many Nigerian commentators called for the club to ensure Osimhen received proper payment if the claims were true.
Some fans had previously criticized Osimhen for choosing Galatasaray over remaining in mainstream European football, suggesting financial motivations drove his decision. However, his rejection of the lucrative Saudi Arabian offer demonstrates that his career choices involve considerations beyond mere financial gain.
As Galatasaray prepares for upcoming challenges, including Champions League fixtures, the club leadership appears determined to maintain stability and focus despite external rumors attempting to disrupt team harmony.
