Former Besiktas midfielder Sinan Engin has shared his opinion on the debate surrounding Victor Osimhen after rumours suggested the Galatasaray forward refused to play because of unpaid wages, Soccernet.ng reports.
Speculation spread online following Galatasaray’s 2-0 defeat to Konyaspor Kulübü, with reports claiming the Nigerian striker stayed out of the match due to salary issues.
Engin rejected those claims, insisting he does not believe money was the reason behind Osimhen’s absence.
Speaking about the situation, the 1986 Super League winner suggested the Super Eagles striker may instead have been focused on protecting himself ahead of a crucial European fixture. Galatasaray face Juventus on Wednesday, holding on to a 5-2 first-leg advantage.
“I don’t believe for a second that Osimhen didn’t play because he wasn’t getting paid. He’s not that kind of kid,” Engin said as quoted by Habersarikirmizi.
“I can agree with Osimhen on this: He might have said, ‘The European arena is more important for me. The Juventus match is more important. I want to prove myself there. My teammates will take care of the Konyaspor match anyway'.
“He didn’t risk himself or tire himself out in the Konyaspor match. However, he’s definitely not the type of person to make a fuss about money.”
Galatasaray have clarified that Osimhen missed the league match because of injury concerns rather than any contractual dispute.
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Galatasaray handed Osimhen boost ahead of Juventus
Galatasaray have received encouraging news after Osimhen returned to full training ahead of their UEFA Champions League knockout phase play-off second leg against Juventus FC in Turin.
The striker trained normally with his teammates on Monday evening at the Kemerburgaz Metin Oktay Facilities after sitting out the recent league defeat. The club previously confirmed that discomfort in his right knee kept him out of the Konyaspor match, describing the decision as a precaution to avoid further injury.
During training, Osimhen completed tactical drills alongside the squad and showed no visible signs of discomfort, offering optimism to the coaching staff before the decisive European encounter.
Galatasaray carry confidence into the return leg after securing a strong 5-2 victory in the first meeting in Istanbul, where Osimhen played an important attacking role.
The Turkish champions only need to avoid a heavy defeat in Turin to seal their progress to the Champions League Round of 16.
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