Victor
Olamilekan Abayomi
Victor Osimhen has been crowned Footballer of the Year at the 72nd Annual Milliyet Sports Awards in Turkey, a prestigious honor recognizing his outstanding performances for Galatasaray. The Nigerian striker’s impressive stats played a huge role in Galatasaray’s domestic double last season, scoring 26 goals and providing four assists in 30 league appearances, plus seven goals in the UEFA Europa League and five in the Turkish Cup.
Osimhen’s consistency has been remarkable, with 19 goals and seven assists in 29 appearances across all competitions this season. His achievements have made him a fan favorite at Galatasaray and cemented his reputation as one of Africa’s finest exports in European football.
The award makes Osimhen the first Nigerian and fifth non-Turkish player to receive this honor, joining an elite list that includes Brazilian legend Alex de Souza and Argentine striker Mauro Icardi. Galatasaray goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır accepted the award on Osimhen’s behalf, praising his teammate as osimhen is a valuable footballer and a good person.
Osimhen’s impressive 2025 calendar year included a staggering 37 goals and seven assists in 41 appearances, leading Galatasaray to a domestic double. He was also named Süper Lig Player of the Season and Galatasaray’s Player of the Season.
The Nigerian star is currently recuperating from an arm injury but expressed gratitude for the award via video link, thanking his club, fans, teammates, president, and coach. He hopes to return soon and continue his fine goal-scoring form.
Osimhen’s latest accolade reinforces his growing influence in Turkish and European football. He’s become one of the most recognizable sporting figures in Turkey, known for his power, aerial ability, and clinical finishing.
