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It’s been a bit over a year since Victor Osimhen stepped into Diego Maradona’s legendary shoes and led Napoli to an unforgettable Scudetto victory. The Nigerian striker scored an impressive 26 goals in 32 games, finishing as the top scorer in Serie A, and helping Napoli win their third Italian title in 2022/23. This was their first championship in 33 years and came without Maradona, in a stadium now named after him.
Osimhen quickly became the star player for Napoli, adored by fans and highly sought after by top clubs. With elite strikers being as rare as hen’s teeth, it’s no surprise that many big teams had their eyes on him.
However, a lot has changed since then. After a stellar season, Osimhen now finds himself on loan to Galatasaray for the 2024/25 season. He was sidelined at Napoli and couldn’t secure a transfer before the European transfer window closed.
Why Did Victor Osimhen Leave Napoli?
The main reason for his departure relates to a major decision made by Napoli’s former coach, Luciano Spalletti. After leading Napoli to the title, Spalletti announced he needed a break, which led to some chaotic times for the club. His temporary replacements struggled, and Napoli had a disappointing season, finishing 10th.
Osimhen’s performance also suffered amid this instability and issues with his contract. Discussions about extending his contract stalled due to disagreements over a release clause. Things took a turn for the worse when Napoli’s official TikTok account posted racially insensitive content involving Osimhen, causing tension. Although Napoli apologized, the damage lingered, and by January, it was clear that Osimhen’s future was uncertain.
Napoli initially extended Osimhen’s contract to June 2026 with a hefty release clause. However, club president Aurelio De Laurentiis later announced that Osimhen would leave at the end of the season. With new coach Antonio Conte bringing back Romelu Lukaku, it became evident that Osimhen’s days at Napoli were numbered.
Where is Victor Osimhen Playing Now?
Osimhen joined Galatasaray on loan in September 2024, mainly because he didn’t have many other options if he wanted to play this season. With Napoli’s season underway and Osimhen not getting game time, a move to Galatasaray was his best choice.
Top clubs like Manchester United, Chelsea, and PSG were initially interested in Osimhen, but various factors—including financial constraints and squad priorities—made the move difficult. Manchester United opted for a different striker, and PSG didn’t meet Napoli’s demands. Chelsea was interested but could only consider a loan due to their own budget constraints.
The Saudi Pro League also looked like a potential destination, but their spending was more restrained this year. Galatasaray’s transfer window extended into September, giving them the chance to sign Osimhen.
Could Victor Osimhen Join Chelsea in January?
There’s a possibility that Osimhen could move to Chelsea or another top club in January. His loan deal with Galatasaray might include a break clause allowing a transfer mid-season if a compelling offer comes up. If not, Napoli will likely look to sell him next summer.
Osimhen still has time to secure a major move, but the longer he waits, the more he risks being overshadowed by new emerging talents. There’s a certain irony in Osimhen possibly being replaced by Romelu Lukaku at Napoli, a striker who has had a somewhat nomadic career in recent years. Wherever Osimhen ends up, he’ll be well-compensated, but the ideal high-profile transfer he once seemed destined for might be slipping away.