Victor Osimhen will keep Galatasaray’s number 45 shirt for the 2026/27 season rather than take the club’s famous number nine, explaining that the jersey has brought him good fortune.
The Nigeria striker made the choice after completing a permanent transfer to the Turkish champions following his successful loan spell at the club.
Quick facts
- Osimhen will continue wearing number 45.
- He joined Galatasaray permanently after a loan stay.
- The 27-year-old scored in a 3-3 pre-season draw with Rennes.
- Galatasaray are targeting more domestic success and a strong European campaign.
Osimhen had been expected to claim the number nine shirt, a number traditionally reserved for Galatasaray’s principal striker and previously worn by Mauro Icardi. Instead, he has chosen to retain the number he has used since arriving at the Yellow-Reds.
He acknowledged that changing to number nine might have increased shirt sales, but said his personal connection with 45 ultimately settled the matter.
“I understand that more shirts could be sold, but I hope you can also see it from my point of view,” Osimhen said. “Number 45 has brought me luck at Galatasaray, and I want to stay with it.”
The forward has become one of Galatasaray’s central figures, winning strong support through his goals and displays since moving from Napoli.
He recently scored his first goal of pre-season in a 3-3 stalemate against French club Rennes, as Galatasaray increased their preparations for the new campaign.
Osimhen is now expected to be a major part of the club’s efforts to retain its domestic titles and compete effectively in Europe this season.
