EXCLUSIVE: Bafetimbi Gomis praises Osimhen at Galatasaray, thrilled by PSG’s success in Europe

Former France international Bafetimbi Gomis has expressed his pride in Victor Osimhen’s outstanding performances at Galatasaray this season, stating that “he possesses a strong hunger for success.”

The Nigerian forward made a loan move to the Turkish Super Lig side in September 2024, after being omitted from Napoli’s first-team plans by Antonio Conte, following a failed transfer to Al Ahli in the Saudi Pro League on deadline day.

Osimhen has made a significant impact since joining the Yellow Reds, netting an impressive 33 goals in 37 appearances as the club strives for a record-extending 25th Super Lig title.

Reflecting on his role in Okan Buruk’s squad this season, Gomis, who had two separate stints at Galatasaray, commended the former African Player of the Year and encouraged him to lead the club to league triumph.

“My hope is that he guides us to the title and brings pride to Galatasaray, Africa, and Nigeria,” he stated. “He’s incredibly hardworking and genuinely hungry for success.”

By scoring a brace in Galatasaray’s 4-1 victory over Sivasspor last weekend, Osimhen set a new personal best for goals scored in a single season.

He is now three goals ahead of Poland’s Krzysztof Piatek from Istanbul Basaksehir FK in the race for the Golden Boot.

With 83 points from 32 games, Buruk’s side currently tops the league table, eight points clear of Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce in second place.

They are scheduled to face eighth-placed Trabzonspor in their next match at Papara Park on Saturday.

‘Osimhen is cherished at Gala’

The Super Eagle’s exceptional form has piqued the interest of several top-tier clubs, with speculation linking him to some of Europe’s elite teams.

Prominent clubs in the English Premier League, Spanish LaLiga, and Italian Serie A are rumoured to be considering a move for the talented striker.

Osimhen’s proven goal-scoring ability and commanding presence on the pitch make him an ideal candidate for clubs looking to enhance their attacking line-up.

While Gomis refrained from discussing where Osimhen might play next, he did emphasise that the striker is deeply valued at Galatasaray.

He added: “I have no advice for Osimhen. He knows he is appreciated at Galatasaray, and he must continue to make us proud and keep scoring. I wish him all the best.”

As the former Lille star continues to shine at Galatasaray, his impending career move is set to become one of the hottest transfer topics in European football.

PSG’s European triumph crucial for Ligue 1 growth

The French top league has often faced criticism as a “farmer’s league,” but Gomis believes Paris Saint-Germain’s recent European performance is proving this notion wrong.

The Parisians require just a draw against Arsenal on Wednesday night to reach the Champions League final this season.

“Ligue 1 is a very strong league,” he asserted. “We produce many talented players who contribute to major clubs in the Premier League and beyond, such as Real Madrid.”

“When you look at Real Madrid today, you can see the immense impact of French players in the organisation.”

“We need to keep progressing. Naturally, we don’t have the same financial muscle as the bigger clubs, but we operate smartly and with proper organisation.”

“With Paris Saint-Germain making their mark in Europe, there’s a chance they could be champions. Their success in the Champions League this season is vital for our league.”

Arsenal have suffered defeats in their last two trips to French clubs, against Rennes in 2019 and Lens in 2023, after previously going unbeaten in their first 13 away matches (eight victories and five draws).