‘I’d Be Jealous If He Played Elsewhere’: Osimhen Raves About Batrakov

Victor Osimhen has hailed Galatasaray teammate Aleksey Batrakov as an extraordinary player and person, admitting he would be jealous if the Russian midfielder played for another club.

Osimhen spoke after scoring both goals in Galatasaray’s 2-1 victory over Fenerbahçe in the ninth week of the Turkish Süper Lig, describing the derby win as an important step in the champions’ title pursuit.

‘It is important to win derbies to become champions. We managed to win this big derby and get three points. We are happy because of the team, the performance, the fans. Our fans both put the opponent under pressure and supported us very well. We applied the coach’s tactics correctly. We earned a well-deserved three points,’ the Nigerian striker told beIN Sports.

The Super Eagles forward also addressed the conversations surrounding him before the match, insisting that his focus remained on Galatasaray and the support he has received from the club’s fans.

‘There were conversations before the match this week. I love this club. I will give everything for this club. I don’t care about social media. I see the fans. Galatasaray fans have always been behind me since I arrived, they have always supported me. I focus on the support of the fans, not trivial things,’ Osimhen said.

‘I look at my team. I believe we will achieve greater success.’

Osimhen reserved particular praise for Batrakov, highlighting the midfielder’s footballing ability, personality and willingness to learn about Galatasaray’s history and culture.

‘Batrakov is a very extraordinary, incredible player and incredible person. He also gives good ‘vibes’ in the locker room. He is trying to learn everything about the country and Galatasaray. He is trying to learn about Galatasaray legends. It’s like he’s been here for two years, but he’s been here for two months,’ he said.

The Nigerian striker revealed that he had studied Batrakov’s previous performances and was impressed by the midfielder’s understanding of attacking movement and his ability to connect with forwards.

‘I watched Batrakov’s previous matches and understood what he would do wherever I went. I watched him connect with other strikers in his former clubs. He told me about the runs I could do. I would be jealous if he was in another club. I hope he doesn’t get injured and continues to help. All my best wishes are with him,’ Osimhen added.