By Ehichoya Janet
Nigerian international Victor Osimhen is reportedly set to acquire Turkish club Istanbulspor, signaling his ambitions beyond the pitch as he looks to invest in football and nurture young talent.
According to reports, Osimhen aims not only to own a club but also to create a bridge between Nigeria and Türkiye in football. His vision includes providing African players with opportunities to develop in Europe.
Building a Football Pathway
Central to Osimhen’s plan is the establishment of a football academy in Nigeria. The academy will scout and train promising young players from grassroots levels. Graduates would then join Istanbulspor to gain professional experience, with the ultimate goal of moving to bigger European clubs. The club will serve as a strategic stepping stone for emerging talent.
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Why Istanbulspor?
Founded in 1926, Istanbulspor is one of Istanbul’s oldest clubs. Not among Türkiye’s top-tier teams, it is reportedly easier and more cost-effective to acquire, making it an ideal platform for Osimhen to implement his football development system.
Players Investing in Football
Osimhen’s move reflects a growing trend of professional footballers investing in clubs and football-related businesses as they plan for life after their playing careers.
Current Form
Osimhen continues to excel on the field. In the 2025–26 season, he has made 29 appearances for Galatasaray, scoring 19 goals and providing 7 assists. Having gained prominence in Europe through stints in Belgium, Germany, France, and notably Napoli in Italy, his performance remains strong in Türkiye.
This venture underscores Osimhen’s ambition to make a lasting impact on football both on and off the pitch, creating opportunities for the next generation of African players.