Osimhen Under Fire After Villarreal Clash: ‘He Came To Fight

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has come under criticism from Villarreal coach Inigo Perez following a heated confrontation during Galatasaray’s 2-1 pre-season defeat to the Spanish side.

According to Ireporter Online, Perez accused the Nigerian forward of approaching the game with aggression after his altercation with Villarreal defender Santiago Mouriño during Saturday’s friendly encounter.

The incident occurred in the 37th minute when Mouriño blocked Osimhen’s run into the penalty area as the striker attempted to connect with a cross.

Osimhen reacted by pushing the Uruguayan defender to the ground before teammates intervened to calm the situation. Referee Kadir Sağlam subsequently cautioned both players with yellow cards.

Speaking after the match, Perez criticised Osimhen’s actions, claiming the striker’s challenge appeared unnecessary and arguing that the incident detracted from the football on display.

The confrontation came despite an impressive individual performance from Osimhen, who had earlier restored parity for Galatasaray with a powerful header from Eren Elmali’s cross after Ayoze Perez had handed Villarreal an early advantage.

Villarreal regained the lead before the break through Georges Mikautadze and held on to secure victory, condemning the Turkish champions to another disappointing pre-season result.

The defeat marked Galatasaray’s third loss in five pre-season matches, with the club ending its preparations with one victory, one draw and three defeats after facing Umraniyespor, Monza, Venezia, Rennes and Villarreal.

The latest setback has also intensified frustration among sections of Galatasaray’s supporters, many of whom have voiced concerns over the club’s transfer activities ahead of the new campaign.

Galatasaray will now shift focus to the start of its Super Lig title defence, with the Turkish champions scheduled to open the new season at home against Corum on Friday.