Former Nigeria youth international Simon Zenke has expressed surprise that Arsenal and Manchester United did not move to sign Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen before he joined Galatasaray.
Zenke believes the Premier League clubs may now regret missing the opportunity after the Nigerian forward’s impressive performances in Turkey.
Osimhen joined Galatasaray from Napoli after attracting interest from several major European clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea.
Speaking to Türkiye Gazetesi, Zenke described Galatasaray’s acquisition of the striker as a significant opportunity, given his market valuation at the time.
“I believe this represented a genuine opportunity signing for Galatasaray because his market valuation exceeded €100 million at that time,” Zenke said.
“I was really surprised that none of the big European clubs, like Arsenal and Manchester United, who needed a striker at the time, were after him. I think they regret it now after seeing his performance in Türkiye.”
Osimhen has established himself as a key figure at Galatasaray, contributing goals and assists since arriving from Napoli. His performances have strengthened his reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading players in European football.
Zenke also praised the striker’s all-round qualities, highlighting his pace, strength, pressing ability, goalscoring instinct and contribution to defensive work.
The former Flying Eagles player further described Osimhen as an important figure for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, arguing that the team benefits significantly from his presence.
Osimhen’s performances for club and country continue to attract attention as Galatasaray pursue domestic and European honours.
