Ighalo also said he understands why Osimhen decided to move to Galatasaray instead of Al-Hilal, despite his advice.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has revealed that he was rooting for Victor Osimhen to don the jersey of Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal last summer.
The ex-Watford forward made this known recently while speaking with the online casino and sports betting platform, WinWin.
Osimhen was chased by several top clubs last summer, with Al-Hilal offering his then-club, Napoli, €70 million for his services.
However, the 27-year-old Nigerian international ended up signing for Turkish giants Galatasaray.
In June 2025, Ighalo encouraged Osimhen to prioritise financial security by moving to the Saudi Pro League for a couple of years before considering a return to Europe.
ALSO READ: Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle demands $130,000 monthly for contract extension
Speaking via a video on X, he stated: “We all have opinions, but sometimes that doesn’t matter. Your opinion may not, mine may not. But here is my own opinion—even if you crucify me for it, I don’t care.”
He continued: “My advice is for him to go to Saudi Arabia, play for two years, make money, and then come back to Europe.”
Reflecting on that advice in his latest interview, Ighalo reiterated that he wanted Osimhen to move to the Saudi league after leaving the Italian Serie A.
He, however, conceded that he understands why the one-time African Footballer of the Year decided to move to Turkey, adding that he should still consider joining Al-Hilal after leaving Galatasaray.
“For me, I wished he had gone to Al-Hilal, but Galatasaray is a big club—the biggest in Turkey—and they participate in the Champions League and perform well,” Ighalo said.
He added: “Perhaps not now, but after the end of his experience with Galatasaray, he can still move to Al-Hilal later.”
