‘I wouldn’t last two minutes’ - Juventus club director singles out Osimhen as a threat ahead of UCL playoff

The Italian side were paired with the Turkish league leaders Galatasaray in the playoffs after failing to secure an automatic ticket.

The draw, made in Nyon, pits the Italian giants against a team led by a player they know all too well, with the path to the last 16 running through Istanbul and Turin.

For Spalletti, the tie marks a reunion with the forward who spearheaded his Napoli side to a historic Serie A title in the 2022-23 season. 

While acknowledging Osimhen as the primary danger, Chiellini was quick to point out that Galatasaray's quality extends beyond their star striker.

"It’s a strong team with great individuals, really good players," Chiellini told Sky Sports. "We’ll play the second leg at home, so it doesn’t end in Istanbul. 

“But we have to go to that stadium and play our game, expose their weaknesses, which they do have, but also limit the big potential and individual quality they have not just upfront. We all know Victor Osimhen well, but there are other important players too."

When asked if he would have enjoyed facing the Nigerian in his prime, the former Italy captain responded with a mix of humour and high praise.

"At one time, I would have liked to mark him, yes, but today I wouldn’t last two minutes," Chiellini admitted. 

"I’ve been lucky to play against him a couple of times in my career, but it was too late for me, so let’s say my physical stats were limited against someone like Osimhen. But Galatasaray is not only him; there are many important players. 

“The Turkish league is investing heavily, and they’re bringing in several high-level profiles. It will be a fascinating double challenge."

Osimhen enters the tie in blistering form, having scored seven goals in 13 Turkish Super Lig appearances and an impressive six goals in six Champions League matches this season.