Juventus boss Luciano Spalleti wary of Victor Osimhen threat

Juventus manager Luciano Spalleti has indicated that Nigeria and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen always poses great threats to opponents.

Spalleti, who worked with the Super Eagles striker at Napoli for three seasons, reacted to the Juventus’ UEFA Champions League knockout phase clash against Galatasaray on Tuesday at 7:45pm GMT.

The Rams Park in Istanbul will host both teams who will slug it out in the first leg of the playoff for a spot in the round of 16.

In a press conference, Luciano Spalleti says he is well aware of the threat of Victor Osimhen who has scored six goals in six UEFA Champions League games this campaign.

Victor Osimhen led Nigeria to 2025 AFCON bronze

” Let me explain Osimhen and Icardi to you like this. Two footballers who will create the encyclopaedia of the number 9″, he said at the pre match conference.

”Both Osimhen and Icardi are extremely strong players. As strikers they know how to behave in the penalty area. One creates chaos, the other knows how to take advantage of that chaos well”.

Victor Osimhen was in fine form for Nigeria who won bronze at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations where he played six matches, scoring four goals and providing four assists under Mali coach Eric Chelle.

The 27-year-old has so far played 16 league games with nine goals scored in the current Turkish Super Lig campaign.

Luciano Spalletti Warns Juventus About Victor Osimhen Threat Ahead of Galatasaray Clash

Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has highlighted the danger posed by Nigeria and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League knockout phase clash.

The two sides are set to meet at Rams Park in Istanbul on Tuesday at 7:45pm GMT in the first leg of the playoff for a place in the Round of 16.

Spalletti Aware of Osimhen’s Goal-Scoring Threat

Spalletti, who worked closely with Osimhen during his time at Napoli, admitted he fully understands the qualities of the Super Eagles forward.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, the Juventus manager praised both Osimhen and Galatasaray striker Mauro Icardi, describing them as elite number nines.

Key Points from Spalletti’s Press Conference:

• Osimhen and Icardi are two of the most complete modern strikers.

• Both players are highly effective inside the penalty area.

• Osimhen creates chaos with his movement and physical presence.

• Icardi thrives by capitalising on defensive disorder.

Spalletti stated:

“Let me explain Osimhen and Icardi like this — two footballers who will create the encyclopedia of the number 9.
Both Osimhen and Icardi are extremely strong players. As strikers, they know how to behave in the penalty area. One creates chaos, the other knows how to take advantage of that chaos well.”

Victor Osimhen’s Impressive Champions League Form

Victor Osimhen has been in outstanding form this season in the UEFA Champions League.

Osimhen’s UCL Stats This Campaign:

• 6 goals in 6 Champions League matches

• Consistent attacking threat against top European defenses

• Key figure in Galatasaray’s attacking setup

His pace, aerial strength, and aggressive pressing make him one of the most feared strikers in Europe right now.

Osimhen’s International Success with Nigeria

Osimhen also played a crucial role for Nigeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), helping the Super Eagles secure a bronze medal.

AFCON 2025 Performance:

• 6 matches played

• 4 goals scored

• 4 assists provided

• Played under coach Eric Chelle

His leadership and goal contributions were instrumental in Nigeria’s strong tournament finish.

Strong Domestic Form in the Turkish Super Lig

The 27-year-old striker has continued his impressive run in the Turkish Super Lig.

Turkish Super Lig Stats (Current Season):

• 16 league appearances

• 9 goals scored

• Consistent match-winning performances

His domestic form combined with his European performances makes him a serious concern for Juventus heading into the clash.