Why I rejected Galatasaray’s number 9 shirt – Osimhen

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has explained why he turned down the chance to wear Galatasaray’s iconic number nine shirt, opting instead to retain his number 45 jersey ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Osimhen, who completed a permanent move to the Turkish champions after a successful loan spell, said he chose to stick with number 45 because of the good fortune it has brought him since joining the club.

The Nigeria international had been widely tipped to inherit the number nine shirt, traditionally worn by the club’s leading striker and previously associated with Mauro Icardi. However, he decided to continue wearing the number he has worn since joining the Yellow-Reds.

According to Turkish outlet Sabah Spor, Osimhen said he believes the club would have sold more shirts if he had switched numbers, but insisted his attachment to number 45 influenced his decision.

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“I believe you will sell more shirts, but I think you will understand my perspective. The number 45 has been lucky for me at Galatasaray,” Osimhen was quoted as saying.

“I want to continue with the same number.”

Osimhen has established himself as one of Galatasaray’s most influential players, winning over supporters with his goals and performances since arriving from Napoli.

The 27-year-old recently opened his pre-season scoring account in Galatasaray’s 3-3 draw with French side Rennes as the Turkish champions stepped up preparations for the new campaign.

The Nigerian forward will be expected to play a key role as Galatasaray seek to defend their domestic titles and make an impact in European competition this season.