Nigeria’s star striker Victor Osimhen says he is ready to take Galatasaray to new heights in the UEFA Champions League, insisting, “It’s time to make a statement in the most prestigious games.”

After starring for Lille and Napoli, the 26-year-old forward returns to Europe’s elite competition wearing Galatasaray’s yellow-and-red, where he has quickly become a fan favourite. He made his move permanent this summer following a standout season-long loan in 2024/25.

The Super Eagles forward, in an interview with UEFA cited by PUNCH Online on Tuesday, said, “I spoke with the president when I arrived here, and we agreed that we want to make a statement in the Champions League.

Osimhen: “We’ve dominated the Turkish league for years, but now we want to show that we can compete among the best in Europe.”

The Nigerian’s ambition reflects his relentless spirit, a hallmark of his rise from humble beginnings in Olusosun, Lagos, to the top of world football.

“I came from a very poor background. Olusosun shaped me. It taught me resilience,” Osimhen recalled. “Whenever I go home, I visit to show gratitude and remind young kids that if I could make it out of there, they can too.”

His story has inspired millions across Africa, blending raw talent with determination. That same drive, he says, fuels his commitment to Galatasaray.

“When I arrived in Istanbul, I had never seen anything like that before — thousands of fans at the airport at 3 am,” he said. “It gives you that fire to give everything for the badge. I absolutely love this club and I’m ready to go through everything with them-the good, the bad, and the ugly.”

Osimhen’s journey continues to mirror that of his idol, Didier Drogba, who also made his mark at Galatasaray before bowing out as a Champions League great.

“In football, my hero was Drogba. I watched him and learned from how he played and lived. I tried to add his qualities to my own game,” he said. “In life, my biggest inspiration was my brother; he taught me how to hustle and never give up.”

Now, with Galatasaray chasing European recognition, Osimhen believes the team’s resurgence can restore Turkish football’s pride on the continental stage.

“We are the biggest club in Turkey, and one of the biggest in the world. “Now, we want to prove it in the Champions League,” he added. (PUNCH)