Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has explained why he refused to take the captain’s armband from teammate Ilkay Gundogan during their 3-1 Turkish Super Lig victory over Alanyaspor on Saturday.
Osimhen delivered an impressive performance in the encounter, scoring a goal and providing an assist as Galatasaray extended their lead at the top of the Turkish Super Lig table to five points.
Midfielder Lucas Torreira initially led the team onto the pitch wearing the captain’s armband. After Torreira was substituted in the second half, he handed the armband to Gundogan. However, the former Manchester City midfielder attempted to pass it on to Osimhen.
The Nigerian international declined the gesture and returned the armband to Gundogan, encouraging him to continue leading the side.
Speaking in his post-match interview, Osimhen said:
“Ilkay is someone I respect very much, someone very valuable to me. He is an incredible person. He’s both calm and motivating. He is visionary.
“It felt strange when he brought me the captain’s armband. I gave it back to him so he could lead us. He helps us every time he comes into the game. He’s someone who deserves love.”
The moment was widely praised by fans as a show of respect and humility from the Super Eagles forward.
