Turkey star reveals Osimhen’s role in Galatasaray teammate’s revived career

Galatasaray forward Barış Alper Yılmaz has received an unexpected boost from star striker Victor Osimhen, according to Turkish midfielder Mehmet Özcan.

The Nigerian international reportedly played a key role in lifting Yılmaz’s confidence during the recent international break, inspiring what many are calling one of the winger’s finest displays of the season.

Yılmaz has endured an up-and-down campaign for Galatasaray, but his performance for Turkey in their thrilling 2-2 draw with Spain showed glimpses of the player he can be at his best.

The 25-year-old not only worked tirelessly but also produced a crucial assist, helping his country avoid defeat against the former world champions.

Speaking on A Spor’s YouTube channel, Özcan revealed that Osimhen reached out immediately after watching the match.

“Victor Osimhen started to motivate Barış Alper Yılmaz by saying, ‘I watched the national team match. You were very good and error-free against Spain. You will continue this here. I am with you and I trust you,’” he said.

The words reportedly resonated deeply with Yılmaz, who has been searching for consistency this season and has often struggled under pressure at club level.

While Yılmaz works toward rediscovering top form, Osimhen has continued his own impressive run, scoring nine goals in 12 appearances across all competitions.

His momentum, however, has been interrupted by injury, ruling him out of Galatasaray’s upcoming clash against Gençlerbirliği.

With their star striker unavailable, manager Okan Buruk will now look toward Yılmaz to translate his national team confidence into club performances.

The timing seems perfect as Galatasaray are eager to return to winning ways, and Yılmaz, now buoyed by Osimhen’s belief, has the opportunity to step up at a pivotal moment.