“I value him” – Victor Osimhen reveals reason for strange gesture to Man City legend in Galatasaray win

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen earned praise for a respectful gesture toward teammate İlkay Gündoğan during Galatasaray’s 3-1 victory over Alanyaspor on Saturday, Soccernet.ng reports.

​While the Nigerian forward was the star of the match—securing a goal and an assist to earn his side the maximum three points—it was a moment of leadership off the ball that caught the eyes of fans.

​In the absence of regular captain Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Lucas Torreira led the Cimbom out as skipper.

Following a brilliant 79-minute shift, Torreira was substituted for Gündoğan. As the Uruguayan midfielder departed the pitch, he handed the captain’s armband to Gündoğan with instructions to pass it to Osimhen.

Victor Osimhen, Ilkay Gundogan, Leroy Sane, Gabriel Sara for Galatasaray. Copyright: ImagoxBSRxAgencyx

​However, in a show of profound respect, the 27-year-old marksman refused to take the mantle. Instead, as Gündoğan approached him, Osimhen took the armband and fastened it onto the former Manchester City man's arm himself.

​”He is a Visionary” — Victor Osimhen on Gündoğan’s Influence

​When asked after the match why he deferred the captaincy to the 35-year-old midfielder, Osimhen explained that his decision was rooted in the veteran’s immense impact on the squad.

Victor Osimhen and Galatasaray teammates. Copyright: Imago

​”İlkay is someone I have a lot of respect for; I value him greatly,” Osimhen said.

“I respected him even before we were teammates. He is a wonderful person and a great example in the dressing room. He motivates us—he is a visionary.

​”When he tried to pass the captain’s armband to me, I felt it was only right to give it back to him. I want him to lead us. He has already done so for several matches and has helped us tremendously. He is someone I value at the highest level, and I want him to continue leading this team.”

​Gündoğan, widely regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, arrived in Turkey with a legendary resume, including a UEFA Champions League title and multiple Premier League trophies from his time at Manchester City.

Victor Osimhen in action for Galatasaray. Copyright: ImagoxBSRxAgencyx

While he may be in the twilight of his career, he remains a vital cog in the Galatasaray machine—a sentiment clearly shared by the Super Eagles' star striker.