Former Fenerbahçe Manager Lauds Morata, while he Quietly Criticizes Super Eagles' Osimhen.

 

Galatasaray recently secured the signing of seasoned Spanish striker Álvaro Morata from AC Milan, with the former Real Madrid star expected to enhance the Istanbul club's attack, which is currently spearheaded by Victor Osimhen. However, Morata’s arrival has sparked fresh discussions in the Turkish press, where he is already being compared to Osimhen.

While Osimhen has been in excellent form for Galatasaray, directly contributing to 22 goals in as many appearances, some in Turkish football believe Morata’s arrival might prove to be an even shrewder acquisition. Though this comparison has been deemed premature by many, former Fenerbahçe manager Ridvan Dilmen has voiced his opinion on the matter. In a recent interview, Dilmen subtly criticized Osimhen while offering high praise for Morata.

Dilmen likened Morata to Harry Kane and Karim Benzema, emphasizing his illustrious career, which includes winning both the European Championship and the Champions League. "Morata is a player on par with Harry Kane and Benzema," Dilmen remarked. He then compared the Spaniard’s finishing abilities to Osimhen’s, stating, "If Osimhen scores five, Morata scores ten," before adding that Morata’s value goes beyond just his goal-scoring ability.

The Turkish coach also pointed out Morata's superior playmaking skills, particularly in linking up with midfielders and disrupting defenders' balance, a skill he believes Osimhen and Michy Batshuayi lack. Dilmen suggested that Galatasaray might revert to a 3-4-1-2 system to accommodate Morata's strengths.

Amid these comparisons, Osimhen has welcomed Morata to the team, acknowledging that the Spanish forward will be a valuable addition. However, with Morata's arrival, there are growing speculations about Osimhen’s future at the club. Reports indicate that Galatasaray, which had been eager to secure Osimhen on a long-term deal, may now face challenges in reaching an agreement with Napoli over his €75 million transfer fee. As a result, Osimhen’s departure from the club appears imminent once his loan term expires.