Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles striker, opted not to wear the captain’s armband during Galatasaray’s 3-3 draw against French side Rennes in a pre-season friendly held at the Ali Sami Yen Sports Complex RAMS Park.
Osimhen made an impactful start by scoring the opening goal for the Turkish champions. He outjumped the Rennes defense to head home a precise corner from Gabriel Sara, giving Galatasaray an early lead.
The highlight of the match occurred in the second half when Galatasaray captain Abdülkerim Bardakcı was substituted in the 74th minute. As he left the field, he offered the captain’s armband to Osimhen, indicating that the Nigerian should take on the leadership role for the remainder of the match.
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Osimhen courteously declined and passed the armband to teammate Yunus Akgün, suggesting that the Turkish attacking midfielder should assume captaincy instead. Reports indicate that Akgün was taken aback by Osimhen’s gesture and attempted to convince him to accept the role. However, Osimhen remained firm in his decision for Akgün to wear it.
This incident has sparked interest as Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk had mentioned Osimhen as a contender for a permanent leadership position at the club. Buruk had previously expressed that Osimhen, a former African Footballer of the Year, would be among the team captains in the upcoming season following Mauro Icardi’s departure.
Although Osimhen declined the captaincy in this instance, his act has stirred discussion among fans, many of whom see it as a demonstration of humility and respect towards his teammates.
