Juventus executive Giorgio Chiellini has admitted that Victor Osimhen is the first name that came to mind after the Italian giants were drawn against Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League playoffs, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Speaking to Sky Sport following the draw for the tie scheduled between 17 and 24 February, Chiellini praised the Super Eagles striker while recalling Juventus’ painful history in Istanbul.
“I would relish the opportunity to face Osimhen; right now, I wouldn’t last even two minutes,” Chiellini said. “He’s an incredibly strong striker. When we were matched up against Galatasaray, my thoughts immediately went to Osimhen and that 2013 match in Istanbul.
“This presents a solid chance to change the narrative around our last encounter in Istanbul. Osimhen has outstanding qualities, especially with his deep runs. That said, Galatasaray is not only about him; they also have several important players who came through Serie A. We respect Galatasaray a lot.”
Former Italy and AC Milan coach Fabio Capello also weighed in on the matchup, warning Juventus about the intimidating atmosphere in Turkey.
“The atmosphere at Ali Sami Yen Rams Park is electric,” Capello told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “The pressure from their fans is enormous; Galatasaray are a completely different team at home. Juventus must be very careful in the first leg. With familiar faces like Osimhen and Icardi on the pitch, this away game will certainly be difficult.”
Osimhen has been in fine form this season and will be central to Galatasaray’s hopes of overcoming Juventus in what promises to be a fiercely contested playoff tie.