Super Eagles forward, Victor Osimhen, has embraced the number 45 jersey following his transfer to Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray.
Renowned football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Osimhen will wear jersey number 45 at Galatasaray.
Romano revealed that the player chose this number himself, believing it holds special significance.
Romano posted on X, “Victor Osimhen, new Galatasaray number 45 as requested by the player!”
This jersey number has become a symbol of good fortune for the Nigerian forward.
Osimhen’s European journey began with a difficult spell at VfL Wolfsburg, where he struggled to find the net, failing to score in all 16 of his appearances.
This tough start was followed by a loan move to Belgian side Sporting Charleroi for the 2018-2019 season.
In Charleroi, Osimhen wore the number 45 jersey, a number he chose because of its lucky connotations. He made an immediate impact, scoring his first professional goal with a memorable backheel against Waasland-Beveren on September 22.
His performances at Charleroi were transformative, as he netted 12 goals in 25 appearances, marking a pivotal breakthrough in his career.
Osimhen’s impressive stint in Belgium opened doors to greater opportunities, leading him to a successful tenure with LOSC Lille.
Throughout the summer transfer window, speculation surrounded a potential move for the Nigerian international to Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, or Al-Ahli. However, none of these transfers materialized.
The reasons for the failure included disagreements over wages, the size of the transfer fee, or the clubs deciding to pursue other options.
This situation left the 25-year-old at risk of remaining sidelined at Napoli, with head coach Antonio Conte affirming that he would not be reinstated to the first-team squad.
However, on Monday, it was revealed that Galatasaray had made an unexpected move to negotiate a season-long loan deal for the out-of-favor striker.
The discussions progressed swiftly, resulting in an agreement for Osimhen to join the Super Lig champions. Notably, the deal does not include an option to buy.
Now, at Galatasaray, he has once again requested the number 45 jersey, hoping it will bring him the same luck and success he experienced during his time at Charleroi.
Currently, Osimhen is in Istanbul and is expected to join his Super Eagles teammates later on Wednesday as they gear up for their upcoming African Cup Nations qualifying match against Benin Republic in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
