The stunning form of Victor Osimhen at Galatasaray of Turkey means the club’s incoming Portuguese star, Rafael Leao will have to play ‘second fiddle’ to the Nigerian stiker, but the new arrival from AC Milan of Italy is not bothered, Sports247 reports.
Rather than feel cowed about playing in the shadows of Osiimhen, who is already a cult hero among The Rams’ supporters and has started the new season in blistering form, Leao said he is already excited about what lies ahead of him.
Osimhen’s new incoming teammate admitted the decision to leave Milan was difficult but one he feels is good for his career, as the 27-year-old winger, who has been capped 49 times, admitted he would always remain part of Milan’s history.
Leao, who became a key figure for the seven-time European champions, scoring 80 goals and providing 65 assists in 291 appearances across all competitions, moves to Istanbul after Milan accepted a €45m offer from Galatasaray for the star, who first played for Sporting Lisbon of Portugal.
“It’s a difficult time. I’ve said goodbye to my teammates after seven years. Milan helped me grow and understand what top-flight football is all about. The time has come to say goodbye.
“I might have liked to say goodbye in a different way. The fans supported me even during the tough times. I know what I’ve achieved here; I’ll go down in the club’s history. All I can do is say thank you,” Leao enthused.
Sports247 reports further that Leao joined Milan in 2019 from Lille Metropole of France, where Osimhen also played before joining SSC Napoli of Italy, from where he moved to Galatasaray in 2024 and continues waxing stronger with each passing season.
This past Saturday, Osimhen was again on fire for Gala, as the 2023 African Footballer Of The Year scored once and provided an assist that helped his side storm from behind to beat Goztepe 3-2 at RAMS Park.
Goztepe stunned the home supporters when Novatus Miroshi opened scoring in the 16th minute, but Galatasaray responded through Davinson Sanchez, who equalised in the 33rd minute.
The hosts completed their comeback five minutes before the hour, with Gabriel Sara finishing after being teed up by Osimhen, who increased the hosts’ advantage from the penalty spot in the 63rd minute, taking his haul to five goals in three games this season.
