Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has revealed why he chose to keep his Galatasaray number 45 jersey instead of taking the club’s famous number nine shirt ahead of the 2026/27 season.
The Nigerian forward, who recently completed a permanent transfer to the Turkish champions after a successful loan spell, said his decision was influenced by the strong connection he has built with the number 45 since arriving at the club.
Osimhen was widely expected to take over the number nine shirt, a jersey traditionally reserved for Galatasaray’s main striker and previously worn by Argentine forward Mauro Icardi. However, the 27-year-old decided to continue with the number that has become part of his identity at the club.
According to Turkish outlet Sabah Spor, Osimhen admitted that switching to the number nine could have increased shirt sales but explained that his personal belief in the luck associated with number 45 was more important.
“I believe you will sell more shirts, but I think you will understand my perspective. The number 45 has been lucky for me at Galatasaray,” Osimhen said.
“I want to continue with the same number.”
Since joining Galatasaray from Napoli, Osimhen has quickly become one of the club’s most important players, winning over supporters with his goals, physical presence and attacking impact.
The striker recently opened his pre-season scoring account during Galatasaray’s 3-3 draw against French club Rennes as the team prepares for the new campaign.
With domestic titles to defend and European ambitions ahead, Osimhen is expected to remain central to Galatasaray’s plans as they aim for another successful season.
