Victor Osimhen Moves to Dispel Rumours Regarding Galatasaray Future Following National Coach's Comments

Victor Osimhen has dismissed transfer-related speculation over his Nigeria omission, saying his comments with coach Eric Chelle were misinterpreted and insisting his focus remains on Galatasaray and the national team.

Daniel Momodu · June 1, 2026 · 118

Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has urged supporters to ignore speculation linking his international absence to a impending summer transfer, clarifying that remarks made by Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle were misinterpreted.

The forward took to social media to cool the situation after Chelle suggested over the weekend that the striker had been omitted from upcoming friendlies against Portugal and Poland because he was on the verge of changing clubs.

Chelle's post-match comments, which followed Nigeria’s Unity Cup success in London, quickly ignited intense transfer debate across social media platforms, forcing the Galatasaray star to intervene directly.

Osimhen revealed he contacted the national team boss to discuss the matter and insisted to his followers on Instagram that Chelle's explanation had been taken completely out of context by the press.

"I just got off the phone with coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview," Osimhen stated. "Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games, and never intended to create any controversy."

The 27-year-old striker went on to defend his relationship with the Franco-Malian tactician, praising his manager and asking the public to look past the media storm.

The sensitivity surrounding Chelle’s comments stems from persistent market rumours tracking the forward. Having fired Galatasaray to their 26th Turkish Süper Lig title with a match-winning double against Antalyaspor, the former Napoli marksman remains one of the most coveted talents in European football.

Despite reported interest from heavyweights such as Paris Saint-Germain, Arsenal, Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, Osimhen has consistently voiced his commitment to staying in Istanbul.

With vital World Cup qualification fixtures on the horizon, Chelle will be keen to move past the distraction and ensure his talismanic vice-captain is fully focused when competitive international action returns.