Fenerbahçe manager, José Mourinho, has criticized Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen for his on-field behavior, despite acknowledging his exceptional talent.
Mourinho, known for his candid remarks, said that while Osimhen ranks among the top African footballers in the world alongside Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, he has a tendency to “dive too much.”
Mourinho’s comments came after Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe’s fierce rivals in the Turkish Super Lig. The striker joined Galatasaray on loan following an unsuccessful bid to leave Napoli on a permanent transfer this summer.
The veteran coach advised Osimhen to adjust his approach if he wants to continue excelling in his career.
“Osimhen is a fantastic player. If I were at a club that could afford €70-75 million, I would sign him. I have a very good relationship with him,” Mourinho said. “But every time I play against him, I speak to him because I don’t like the way he behaves on the pitch. He dives too much.”
Mourinho’s comments have sparked reactions within the football community, highlighting both Osimhen’s growing reputation and the need for him to refine his style of play.