Nigeria’s Super Eagles Victor Osimhen has been crowned the winner of the 2026 Milliyet Footballer of the Year award.
The Galatasaray striker earned the prestigious honour following a sensational campaign in Turkey, where his consistent performances and remarkable goalscoring form proved decisive for the Istanbul giants across domestic competitions.
Since his arrival, Osimhen has made an immediate impact, establishing himself as one of the most dominant and feared attackers in the league. His unique blend of pace, strength, and clinical finishing has set him apart, earning widespread admiration from fans, analysts, and football stakeholders.
Reacting to the award, Osimhen expressed deep gratitude and humility:
“I feel truly honored to be named Footballer of the Year at the Milliyet Sportsman of the Year Awards. This recognition means so much to me and I am truly grateful.
I want to say a big thank you to the organizers and everyone who voted for me. Special thank you to my fans, my teammates, and my family at Galatasaray, this wouldn’t be possible without your love and constant support. I share this award with all of you.
I’m really sorry I couldn’t be there in person due to my injury, but I’m very grateful to Uğurcan Çakır for standing in for me and receiving the award. That means a lot to me, and brother, keep doing what you do, you’re truly one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
Thank you all once again. I stay grateful and I keep working. God is the Greatest.”
The award further reinforces Osimhen’s growing status as one of Africa’s finest footballers and a key figure for both club and country. His influence also remains vital for the Nigerian national team, where he continues to lead the attacking line with authority.
This latest accolade adds to an already impressive list of individual honours, capping off yet another outstanding chapter in Osimhen’s career.
