Jay-Jay Okocha Advises Victor Osimhen: “Why Shouldn’t He Stay in Turkey?”
Nigerian football legend Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha has offered heartfelt and practical advice to fellow Nigerian superstar Victor Osimhen following his phenomenal loan spell with Galatasaray in Turkey. As the young striker’s future continues to dominate headlines, Okocha is encouraging him to consider remaining in Turkey, even if it requires personal or professional compromises.
The former Super Eagles captain, who himself enjoyed a brilliant career in Europe — including a memorable two-year stint with Turkish giants Fenerbahçe — shared his thoughts during an interview with Turkish broadcaster TRT Spor, as reported by Haberler.
“Turkey is a great place to play and live football” – Jay-Jay Okocha
In the interview, Okocha had nothing but praise for Turkey, both as a footballing nation and as a country with a rich culture that welcomes African players.
“Turkey is a great place to play and live football,” Okocha said.
This simple but powerful statement reflects the high regard Okocha has for Turkish football and the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the Süper Lig. He went on to urge Victor Osimhen to seriously consider staying with Galatasaray, the club where he just concluded an outstanding season.
“Sometimes, you may need to make sacrifices when making decisions in football. Osimhen had a great season at Galatasaray. Ultimately, he is happy there. Why shouldn’t he stay with the team? I love Turkey. He loves it too.”
Osimhen’s Record-Breaking Season at Galatasaray
It’s easy to understand why Okocha is urging Osimhen to remain in Turkey. The 25-year-old striker had an extraordinary season, scoring his 37th goal of the season in Galatasaray’s 2–0 victory over İstanbul Başakşehir. This match, which took place on the final day of the Turkish Süper Lig campaign, capped off a dream run for Osimhen, who had been loaned from Italian club Napoli.
His goal-scoring prowess was instrumental in helping Galatasaray lift both the Turkish Cup and the Turkish Super Lig title, completing a historic domestic double. Beyond the silverware, Osimhen’s personal accolades have also been impressive. He was named Player of the Season and won the Süper Lig Top Scorer award, beating out several high-profile contenders.
These honors clearly mark him as one of the most valuable players in Turkey right now — and perhaps in all of European football.
A Decision That Could Shape His Career
Despite all these achievements, questions remain about what’s next for Osimhen. Will he return to Napoli and compete in Serie A under a new manager? Will he be sold to a Premier League or La Liga giant in a big-money move? Or will he decide to continue in Turkey, where he has found both success and happiness?
When asked whether he had any insider knowledge about where Osimhen might go next, Jay-Jay Okocha made it clear that he didn’t know the answer.
“I don’t know,” he said.
“Wherever he decides to go, I wish him the best.”
This shows not only humility but also the respect Okocha has for Osimhen’s personal and professional autonomy. However, his earlier comments made it clear that he hopes the young star will continue to wear Galatasaray’s colors.
Okocha’s Own Fond Memories of Turkey
To further highlight his perspective, Okocha reflected on his own experience as a player in Turkey. Between 1996 and 1998, he played for Fenerbahçe, one of Galatasaray’s biggest rivals. Despite the fierce competition between the clubs, Okocha’s admiration for Turkey transcends club loyalties.
“It was a wonderful two years,” he said, recalling his time in Turkey with fondness.
He praised the fans, the passion for football, and even the local cuisine, saying these memories have stayed with him long after leaving the league.
Okocha ended his remarks with a heartfelt shout-out to his old club:
“The greatest is Fener.”
Even with that loyalty to Fenerbahçe, Okocha had no problem recommending Galatasaray to Osimhen, showing how much he believes in the quality of life and football in Turkey.
What This Means for Nigerian Football
Jay-Jay Okocha’s advice to Victor Osimhen carries weight not only because of his status as a football legend but also because he’s been in a similar position before. Okocha understands the pressures and temptations that come with international fame. He knows what it means to chase big contracts in Europe’s top five leagues, but he also understands the importance of stability, happiness, and cultural fit — things Osimhen has clearly found in Turkey.
Victor Osimhen has quickly become a source of pride for Nigerian football. His performances in Turkey have not only enhanced his reputation but also strengthened Nigeria’s image on the international football stage. If he chooses to stay with Galatasaray, it could inspire other Nigerian players to consider moves to the Turkish league — a competition that offers both visibility and a passionate footballing culture.
Conclusion: Should Osimhen Stay or Go?
At the end of the day, the decision about where to play next lies with Victor Osimhen. Whether he returns to Napoli, moves to another elite European club, or chooses to continue his remarkable journey with Galatasaray, one thing is clear: he has already proven his talent and earned the respect of football legends like Jay-Jay Okocha.
As Okocha put it:
“Ultimately, he is happy there. Why shouldn’t he stay with the team?”
This quote encapsulates everything Osimhen — and perhaps many young African footballers — should consider when making career decisions. Success is not just about trophies and money; it's also about finding a place where you feel valued, supported, and truly happy.
And right now, that place might just be Turkey.
