Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen surprised fans during Galatasaray’s pre-season friendly against Rennes after declining the opportunity to wear the captain’s armband despite being offered the role late in the match.
The Nigerian international was one of the standout performers in the entertaining 3-3 draw at the Ali Sami Yen Sports Complex RAMS Park, scoring Galatasaray’s opening goal with a powerful header from a Gabriel Sara corner kick.
The talking point, however, came in the second half when Galatasaray captain Abdülkerim Bardakcı was substituted in the 74th minute. Before leaving the pitch, Bardakcı handed the captain’s armband to Osimhen, signalling that he wanted the striker to lead the team for the remainder of the game.
Rather than accepting the responsibility, Osimhen politely declined and passed the armband to teammate Yunus Akgün, suggesting that the attacking midfielder should captain the side instead.
Akgün appeared surprised by the gesture and reportedly tried to persuade Osimhen to keep the armband. The Super Eagles star, however, remained firm in his decision, leaving Akgün to wear the captain’s band until the final whistle.
The incident has sparked discussion among Galatasaray supporters, particularly because manager Okan Buruk had previously indicated that Osimhen was among the players being considered for a leadership role ahead of the new season.
Buruk had revealed after the departure of Mauro Icardi that Osimhen was expected to become one of the club’s captains, making the striker’s decision during the friendly even more notable.
While neither Osimhen nor the club has publicly explained the reason behind the decision, the moment has generated widespread conversation among fans as Galatasaray continue preparations for the new campaign.
