Galatasaray President cites Osimhen’s importance ahead of Manchester City clash

Galatasaray President Dursun Özbek has revealed the club's financial records and ambition on the pitch, citing Victor Osimhen's importance in their growth, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old joined the record Turkish Champions permanently in the summer for a fee of €75m, a record fee for any player coming into the Super Lig.

After exerting dominance domestically, Osimhen's signing was a statement by Galatasaray, who look to extend their success to Europe, especially after an abysmal outing in the Europa League last season.

However, Galatasaray could exit the UEFA Champions League next week if they fail to win against Manchester City, a game Osimhen is pumped about.

Galatasaray: Dursun Özbek cites Osimhen's importance in club's ambition

In a speech broadcast by A Spor, Galatasaray's President confirmed the club have been able to recoup the amount they spent on Osimhen.

“We have closed the 6 months in question with a net profit of €374 million. We did not fall behind on our investments while reaching these figures,” the 76-year-old.

“This season too, our faith in Okan Buruk and our team is unwavering. We are advancing toward the championship with confident steps.

“In the Champions League, provided there are no mishaps, we will reach the second round after the game against Manchester City.

“We worked very hard to bring our football team to the level of the Champions League, and we continue to work.

“There were those who didn't believe in us at the beginning of the season. We reached agreements with very important players who directly contribute to our team, starting with Victor Osimhen.

“Those who know it is impossible to destroy Galatasaray from the outside are now trying to sow discord among us, attempting to turn us against each other. This has been tried in the past as well.

“We have a team that has been champion for three years and continues in every competition. We are managing this process in full coordination with me, my responsible executive colleagues, and our technical staff.

“Even if names change, the system continues in this way. The transfer process is an equation with many unknowns. This is a team that works day and night,” Galatasaray's 39th president concluded.

Galatasaray are currently top of the Turkish Super Lig, just a point above Fenerbahce. They are at risk of missing out on the Champions League second round play-offs if they secure nothing but a win against Manchester City next week.