Osimhen Rejects Galatasaray Vice-Captaincy As Club Face Growing Pressure

Victor Osimhen has found himself at the centre of growing debate at Galatasaray after reportedly turning down the club’s offer of the vice-captaincy, a decision that has intensified scrutiny on the Turkish champions’ hierarchy.

The Nigeria international is said to have declined the leadership role during Galatasaray’s 3-3 pre-season draw with Rennes on Sunday. Rather than wear the captain’s armband, Osimhen handed it to winger Yunus Akgün, signalling that his teammate should lead the side.

The incident has sparked widespread discussion in Turkey, with television presenter and Telegol moderator Serhat Ulueren claiming the development has piled further pressure on Galatasaray vice-president Abdullah Kavukçu.

Speaking to GS Gazetesi, Ulueren suggested that supporters were becoming increasingly frustrated with the club’s transfer activity and the handling of several key issues within the squad.

“Galatasaray fans are frustrated by the lack of transfers,” Ulueren said.

“Osimhen was offered the vice-captaincy, but he refused. We saw it in the match; he didn’t even wear the armband.

“Davinson isn’t playing and wants to go to Como. Barış also has suitors from the Premier League. Why aren’t you solving these problems?

“I see that Abdullah Kavukçu is under a lot of pressure. That is how management is. Today you are happy, tomorrow you are not.”

Osimhen’s decision has inevitably fuelled speculation over his position within the squad, although neither the striker nor Galatasaray have publicly commented on the reports.

The 27-year-old remains one of the club’s biggest stars and is expected to play a pivotal role as Galatasaray prepare to defend their Turkish Super Lig title and compete in Europe this season.

However, the controversy comes at a time when supporters are demanding greater ambition in the transfer market, with many believing the club has been slow to strengthen despite facing another demanding campaign on multiple fronts.

While there is no indication that Osimhen’s refusal was linked to his long-term future, the episode has added another layer of intrigue to Galatasaray’s pre-season preparations and increased the pressure on the club’s leadership to address concerns both on and off the pitch.