Galatasaray have rewarded Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen with the club’s iconic No. 9 jersey ahead of the 2026/27 season, underscoring his growing importance to the Turkish champions.
According to Turkish outlet Habersarikirmizi, Osimhen will switch from the No. 45 shirt he has worn since joining the club to the prestigious No. 9 jersey following Mauro Icardi’s departure.
Reports indicate that the club deliberately delayed reassigning the shirt out of respect for Icardi, who previously wore the number and made significant contributions during his time at Galatasaray.
Turkish journalist Ali Naci Küçük said the club’s hierarchy waited until Icardi’s exit was confirmed before officially handing the jersey to Osimhen.
The move is seen as a strong vote of confidence in the Nigerian international, with Galatasaray viewing him as a central figure in the club’s plans for the new campaign.
Interestingly, Icardi also had to earn the No. 9 shirt after initially wearing No. 99 upon his arrival at the club.
Osimhen is now expected to begin the 2026/27 season wearing one of the most iconic shirt numbers in Galatasaray’s history.
