Galatasaray captain Mauro Icardi believes the arrival of Victor Osimhen has transformed the global profile of the Turkish Super Lig, attracting a new wave of elite talent to the country.
Osimhen initially joined Gala on a season long loan from Napoli last summer after failing to secure a move away from Serie A. The Nigerian striker made an instant impact, firing the Yellow Reds to a domestic double and becoming the centrepiece of Okan Buruk’s attack.
Galatasaray then beat stiff competition from Saudi giants Al Hilal to sign the 2023 African Footballer of the Year on a permanent deal this summer, a move many see as a turning point for Turkish football.
The Istanbul club also strengthened further with the high profile signing of Germany international Leroy Sané, underlining the league’s growing appeal.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Icardi said the idea of such players choosing Turkey would have been unimaginable a few years ago.
“Turkish football? Players like Victor Osimhen and Leroy Sané have arrived, and it was unthinkable before,” the Argentine said.
“There are many players who want to come to Turkey, and it’s a great pride and honour for me to have contributed to this.”