‘Osimhen rivals Haaland and Gyökeres as Europe’s best,’ says former Gala striker and assistant coach, Necati Ateş
Former Galatasaray striker and assistant coach Necati Ateş has made headlines with his bold praise for Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, calling him one of the top three strikers in Europe and a legitimate contender for the Ballon d’Or.
Speaking to Özgür Sancar on Radyospor, Ateş didn’t hold back in his admiration for the Napoli star, placing Osimhen in the same elite category as Viktor Gyökeres and Erling Haaland.
‘A center forward like him, who is effective both from the ground and from the air, is well over 100 million euros,’ Ateş said. ‘With Gyökeres and Haaland, Osimhen is one of the top 3 strikers in Europe.’
Osimhen, 26, has continued to impress with his explosive pace, aerial dominance, and clinical finishing, making him one of the most sought-after forwards in world football.
His performances in Serie A and on the international stage have drawn interest from top clubs across Europe.
Ateş went further, suggesting Osimhen should be considered for football’s most prestigious individual honor.
‘I think he is a candidate for the Ballon d’Or,’ he said. ‘But it is difficult for Turkey to win because its country score is low. There is no player like Osimhen in many big teams in Europe.’
The comments have sparked debate across Turkish and international football circles, with many agreeing that Osimhen’s trajectory places him firmly among the sport’s elite.
