Victor Osimhen Faces Backlash Over Alleged Assault on Turkish Journalist
Victor Osimhen has found himself in hot water after reportedly assaulting a Turkish journalist, with the incident captured on video.
The 26-year-old Galatasaray striker, who was named 2023 CAF Player of the Year, is now at the centre of a controversy involving claims of violence, threats, and an alleged attempt to bribe the press into silence.
The drama unfolded late on Thursday evening, following a disappointing result for Galatasaray in the UEFA Europa League two days earlier. Osimhen, dressed in a beanie and a yellow hoodie, was leaving an upscale entertainment venue with his entourage when he was approached by photographers. This, according to Turkish publication Posta, set off an explosive chain of events.
As the cameras flashed, Osimhen’s temper reportedly flared. Posta journalist Tolga Bozduman claimed he was assaulted by the footballer, describing the situation as escalating from a simple photo request to a physical attack.
“When the camera flashes went off, all hell broke loose,” Bozduman recounted. “Osimhen screamed and lunged at me. He tried to take my camera, but I didn’t let him. He punched me in the head—it still hurts.”
After the altercation, Osimhen allegedly attempted to cover up his actions by offering the journalist money to delete the photos.
“He said, ‘Destroy the footage, I’ll give you money,’” Bozduman revealed. When the journalist refused, the situation took a darker turn. “He said, ‘I’ll destroy you,’” Bozduman claimed, recalling the chilling threat that followed his refusal.
This incident has shocked fans and media alike, raising serious questions about Osimhen’s behaviour off the pitch. It also wouldn’t be the first time the Nigerian star has been involved in an altercation outside of football. In August of last year, a video surfaced showing Osimhen angrily confronting a fan who was filming him at a popular nightclub in Naples. The video, lasting just 14 seconds, shows Osimhen pushing his way through the crowd to grab the fan’s phone after realising he was being filmed.
Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport reported that Osimhen seemed irritated by being caught up in the nightlife scene and was visibly annoyed at being filmed.
The latest incident has cast a shadow over the Super Eagles star, and it remains to be seen how this will affect his reputation both on and off the field.
