Galatasaray captain Osimhen: Timurlenk’s two reasons Super Eagles star should not wear armband

Victor Osimhen has been named the new permanent captain of Galatasaray ahead of the 2026-27 season, but not everyone believes the Nigerian striker is the right man for the role, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Turkish champions decided to hand Osimhen the captain’s armband following the departure of former skipper Mauro Icardi, who left the club after failing to agree a new contract. The decision was backed by head coach Okan Buruk and Galatasaray’s senior management after the Super Eagles forward impressed both on and off the pitch during his time in Istanbul.

The appointment is historic because Osimhen becomes the first African player to serve as Galatasaray’s permanent captain in the club’s 121-year history.

The captaincy also appears set to bring another major change. The Super Eagles striker is widely expected to swap his temporary No. 45 shirt for the famous No. 9 jersey that was previously worn by Icardi.

Buruk has repeatedly praised the 27-year-old’s leadership, pointing to his determination during matches, tactical understanding and strong influence inside the dressing room. His performances have also justified his rise within the squad. Since arriving at RAMS Park, Osimhen has helped Galatasaray win back-to-back Turkish Süper Lig titles and lift the Turkish Cup.

The Nigerian already serves as the Super Eagles’ first vice-captain and captained his country in two of their last four competitive matches, including games against Uganda and Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The captaincy also offers a strong signal that Osimhen remains fully committed to Galatasaray despite weeks of transfer speculation linking him with clubs in the Premier League and lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia.

Timurlenk explains why Osimhen should not be captain

Despite recognising Osimhen’s outstanding contribution to Galatasaray, respected Turkish sports journalist Bülent Timurlenk believes two major weaknesses could prevent the striker from becoming an effective captain: his body language and his temperament.

While Buruk believes the former Napoli star has the qualities needed to replace Icardi as captain, Timurlenk argued that emotional control is just as important as football ability when leading one of Turkey’s biggest clubs.

“While Osimhen wholeheartedly deserves the captaincy, his body language and inability to control his anger in his interactions with referees, opponents, and sometimes teammates, are obstacles to being a good captain,” Timurlenk told Sabah.

The veteran journalist believes Osimhen’s passion sometimes works against him during matches, especially in heated moments involving officials and opponents.

He added: “Osimhen plays professionally but with an amateur spirit. The technical staff will certainly want to honor him with the armband, but the practical reality on the field is that Abdülkerim is Galatasaray’s first captain.”

Osimhen, however, remains one of the club’s most influential players and is expected to lead Galatasaray’s push to defend their Süper Lig title and compete strongly in the UEFA Champions League.

The Nigerian striker was not involved in Galatasaray’s first pre-season friendly on Friday, when Buruk’s side cruised to a 5-1 victory over Ümraniyespor at Ümraniye City Stadium. However, attention will remain firmly on how he embraces his new leadership role when the competitive season begins.