Former Turkish defender Erman Toroğlu has stirred debate by claiming that Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is not on the same level as Mauro Icardi.
Osimhen recently stole the spotlight with a match-winning brace in Galatasaray’s 2-1 victory over Çaykur Rizespor in the Turkish Super Lig. However, despite his heroics, Toroğlu remains unconvinced that the Nigerian can match Icardi’s quality.
Speaking on Vole YouTube Channel via habersarikirmizi, Toroğlu downplayed Osimhen’s abilities, suggesting that while his performances may stand out in Turkey, replicating them in European competitions is a different challenge.
“Victor Osimhen won the match against Çaykur Rizespor singlehandedly,” Toroğlu admitted. “You can score goals like that in Turkey, but in Europe, they won’t allow you that much space. I hope he can prove himself at that level.”
He then compared Osimhen to Icardi, emphasizing the Argentine’s superior skillset. “Osimhen is quick and fast, but he is not as good as Mauro Icardi. Icardi is different he’s composed, a clinical finisher, and has a special ability to lose defenders.”
The remarks have sparked mixed reactions among football fans, with some questioning Toroğlu’s assessment given Osimhen’s impressive record in Italy’s Serie A and on the international stage.
With Galatasaray eyeing further success, Osimhen now has the perfect opportunity to prove his critics wrong both in Turkey and on the bigger European stage.