Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has called on the public to ignore speculation about his future after comments by Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle sparked fresh transfer rumors.
Chelle had suggested that Osimhen could be close to securing a move away from the Turkish champions this summer while explaining the striker’s absence from Nigeria’s upcoming international friendlies against Poland and Portugal.
According to the Malian coach, Osimhen opted out of the squad to focus on a possible transfer.
“We miss two players because Victor Osimhen may be about to change clubs,” Chelle said.
The remarks quickly fuelled speculation over the forward’s next destination. However, Osimhen has now moved to clarify the situation, revealing that he spoke directly with Chelle following the interview.
In a statement shared on his Instagram Story, the Nigerian international said the coach’s comments had been misunderstood and taken out of context.
“I just got off the phone with Coach Eric Chelle regarding the comments about me in his recent interview,” Osimhen wrote.
“Unfortunately, his words have been taken out of context and blown out of proportion. He has great respect for Galatasaray, follows most of our games, and never intended to create any controversy.
“I appreciate the conversation, the opportunity to always represent my country, and I look forward to continuing to work with him. He is a great coach whom I respect a lot, and I kindly ask everyone to disregard the speculation surrounding this matter.”
Osimhen’s response appears aimed at calming growing rumors linking him with a move away from Galatasaray ahead of the summer transfer window.
