Osimhen: I’d Be Jealous If Batrakov Joined Another Club

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has revealed his admiration for Galatasaray teammate Aleksey Batrakov, admitting he would be jealous if the young midfielder joined another club.

Osimhen made the remarks after scoring twice to inspire Galatasaray to a 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Fenerbahçe in a Turkish Süper Lig derby at RAMS Park on Monday night.

According to a post by Le Marca Sports on X, the Nigerian international described Batrakov as an exceptional footballer and an equally impressive person.

“Batrakov is a very unusual, incredible player and truly an incredible person as well,” Osimhen said.

The former Napoli striker praised the 21-year-old midfielder’s attitude since arriving in Istanbul, highlighting his willingness to learn about Galatasaray’s history, embrace the club’s culture and build a strong relationship with the supporters.

Osimhen also noted that head coach Okan Buruk trusts Batrakov, adding that the midfielder has settled in so well that he appears to have been playing alongside his teammates for much longer than he actually has.

The Super Eagles forward disclosed that he had watched Batrakov’s previous matches to understand his playing style and improve their understanding on the pitch.

“I’m trying to learn his game too. I watched his previous matches and we talk in detail. We’re trying to create setups in a different way with him,” he explained.

Osimhen said their conversations often focus on the passes Batrakov intends to make and the runs he expects the Nigerian striker to execute, describing their communication as an important element of their developing attacking partnership.

The striker’s admiration for his teammate became even clearer when he spoke about the possibility of Batrakov leaving Galatasaray.

“If he went to another club, I’d really be jealous. I hope he never gets injured and helps us in a good way. All my best wishes are with him,” Osimhen added.

Batrakov reportedly joined Galatasaray from Russian club Lokomotiv Moscow in August 2026 on a five-year contract. The reported transfer fee was €25 million, with Lokomotiv Moscow also entitled to 15 per cent of any profit Galatasaray makes from a future sale.

Meanwhile, Osimhen’s performance against Fenerbahçe further underlined his importance to the Turkish champions.
The Nigerian striker opened the scoring in the 29th minute before doubling Galatasaray’s advantage in the 44th minute to give the hosts a 2-0 lead at half-time.

Fenerbahçe fought back in the second half, with İrfan Can Kahveci reducing the deficit in the 62nd minute. However, Galatasaray held on to secure a crucial derby victory and strengthen their position in the Turkish Süper Lig title race.

Osimhen’s goals and his glowing assessment of Batrakov highlighted both his individual influence and the growing understanding between the two players as Galatasaray pursue further success.