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Galatasaray's Nigerian star Victor Osimhen said reports of a personal conflict with Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti were inaccurate, emphasizing mutual respect between the two ahead of a UEFA Champions League play-off against Juventus.
The Nigerian international dismissed claims of a falling-out and praised Spalletti’s commitment during Napoli’s title-winning campaign.
"It was said that we had a fight, but that was not true. I have great respect for him," Osimhen said. "He slept at Napoli’s facilities for months and worked day and night to convince us that we could win the title. Some coaches help you develop first as a person, then as a footballer."
Speaking about the next match against his former coach, Osimhen stated that Galatasaray is focused on strengthening its position in European football and delivering strong performances in the Champions League.
"We are trying to grow on the international stage, very high-level players have been signed, and we aim to achieve good results in the Champions League," he told Italian sports outlet La Gazzetta Dello Sport. "We are a well-known club in Türkiye, but now we want to leave our mark in Europe as well."
Galatasaray is scheduled to host Juventus on Feb. 17 in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League last-16 play-off round at RAMS Park, with kickoff set for 8:45 p.m. local time (GMT+3).
Osimhen described the fixture as a demanding challenge and stressed the need to remain focused. "It will be exciting to face a top-level club like Juventus," he said. "We know we cannot lose focus, because every mistake against them can be very costly."
Osimhen also confirmed that Juventus showed interest in signing him before his move to Galatasaray, noting that discussions took place with club officials.
"Yes, I could have played for Juventus, just like I could have been at two other big Serie A clubs today," Osimhen said, adding that sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli contacted him directly before negotiations with Galatasaray began.
He described Juventus’ approach as a sign of recognition from one of Europe’s established clubs. "There was interest, and when Juve calls you, you have to sit down and listen, no matter what," he added.
The 27-year-old also expressed confidence in his standing among elite forwards while avoiding direct comparisons. "I don’t like making comparisons, but I know I am one of the best strikers,” Osimhen said. “If I am not number one, then I am number two, or at most number three."
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