Victor Osimhen Keeps Number 45 at Galatasaray, Rejects Number 9 Shirt

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, who completed a permanent transfer to Turkish champions Galatasaray after a successful loan, has confirmed he will continue wearing the No. 45 jersey for the upcoming season. He turned down the club’s offer to switch to the iconic No. 9 shirt vacated by Mauro Icardi, saying the number has brought him good fortune. "Number 45 has been lucky for me at Galatasaray," Osimhen told Turkish outlet Sabah.

The decision was respected by Galatasaray management, who had prepared a special No. 9 kit for him. Osimhen opened pre‑season scoring with a goal in a 3‑3 draw against Rennes. While the jersey choice underscores his personal superstition, speculation continues about his future, with clubs such as Barcelona and Atletico Madrid reported to be monitoring the forward.

Galatasaray remains focused on defending its domestic title and improving its European campaign with Osimhen as a key attacking figure.