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Nigerian football expert criticises Manchester United’s pursuit of Victor Osimhen, calling a move a step down from Champions League side Galatasaray amid mixed fan reactions.
Rumours that Manchester United have reopened contract talks with Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen have drawn sharp criticism from football analyst Charles Anazodo.
The Super Sport presenter took to social media to express his disappointment, questioning whether a move from Champions League side Galatasaray to a struggling Manchester United would be a step forward for Nigeria’s star forward.
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The Transfer rumour and Osimhen’s ambitions
Reports suggest that United have reignited discussions with Napoli over a potential transfer for Osimhen, whose €75 million release clause remains unchanged.
The 26-year-old striker, currently on loan at Galatasaray, has made it clear he wants a move this summer.
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United are among the few clubs reportedly willing to meet his high demands, including a €12 million annual salary.
Osimhen’s pace, pressing ability, and Premier League-ready mentality make him an attractive option for United, who finished just above the relegation zone last season and are desperate to bolster their attack.
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After an impressive loan spell at Galatasaray, where he scored 37 goals and assisted eight times in 41 appearances, the Nigerian forward remains one of Europe’s most lethal strikers.
Anazodo’s disappointment
Despite the hype, Anazodo believes moving to Manchester United would be a backward step for Osimhen.
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He tweeted,
“Rumor is that Manchester United has restarted talks with Osimhen. Galatasaray play in the UCL & the PL [Turkish Süper Lig] , nothing to do with big time football next season. Signing for the Red Devils will be a step down in his career. A team that finished 18pts above relegation & 42pts off the winners.”
Anazodo’s comments show the contrast between Galatasaray’s Champions League football and United’s recent struggles, where the Red Devils managed only 44 goals in 38 Premier League matches.
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Fans push back
Anazodo’s comments sparked debate among fans, some of whom defended Manchester United’s stature and history. One user wrote,
“Just because of missing one Champions League??? A team with rich history, 3 UCLs, 20 League titles & the first to FA Cups & others, WCC, an elite & European giant club. Your beef with Manchester United ‘is a ponmo’ I swear.”
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Another fan urged Anazodo to ease off the pressure on Osimhen:
“Charles, you’re putting too much pressure on Osimhen. Please take it easy! You want him at Chelsea, go and negotiate well, otherwise leave him alone to make up his mind without media pressure.”
Others pointed out that great players have joined United even when the club was not at its peak, citing,
“No sir. I disagree with you, Chelsea bought Ngolo Kante after finishing 10th in 2016 season.”
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The Bigger picture
Osimhen’s situation is complex. After rejecting a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, he appears determined to continue his career in Europe, with Manchester United, Galatasaray, and Liverpool among the interested clubs.
Napoli, his parent club, reportedly demands a €75 million fee, while Osimhen’s wage demands reportedly remain a sticking point.
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Manchester United’s interest signals their intent to strengthen their frontline following a disappointing 2024/25 season.
However, the club’s lack of Champions League football next season and their recent league position raise questions about whether the move aligns with Osimhen’s ambitions.
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As discussions progress, Osimhen faces a crucial decision that could define the next chapter of his career.
Whether he chooses to join the Red Devils or pursue other options, the Nigerian striker’s future continues to be a hot debate among football fans across the world.
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