**Istanbul** – On the eve of Galatasaray’s Champions League clash with Liverpool at RAMS Park, Victor Osimhen has revealed why he turned down the chance to join the Reds last summer. In an explosive interview, the Nigerian striker admitted that one particular Liverpool player’s “selfish” style of play was the decisive factor behind his rejection of a Premier League switch.
“Before Liverpool came for me last summer, I studied some of their gameplay and methods,” Osimhen told Turkish outlet *Fanatik*. “I was excited – the energy, the fans, the history. They raised their offer twice, even throwing in players like Darwin Núñez in a potential swap. But I couldn’t ignore what I saw on the pitch. One guy in their attack… he’s terrible and selfish. He hogs the ball, doesn’t make runs for teammates, and it kills the flow. Why fight for chances if it’s all about one man’s ego?”
### Liverpool’s Pursuit of Osimhen
Sources close to negotiations confirm Liverpool’s pursuit was aggressive. Under new manager Arne Slot, the Reds identified Osimhen as their ideal No. 9, especially with Núñez struggling for consistency and facing transfer links to Saudi Arabia.
Reports suggested the move was within 24 hours of completion in January, only collapsing due to Napoli’s internal payment disputes. By summer, Liverpool’s bid had risen to around €75 million plus add-ons, but Osimhen’s camp rejected the move on tactical grounds.
### Who Was Osimhen Referring To?
Though Osimhen did not name the player, insiders point toward Darwin Núñez. The Uruguayan forward, signed for £85 million in 2022, has scored 38 goals in 118 appearances but has often been criticized for erratic decision-making and selfish play in key moments.
“Victor watched clips of their games against Arsenal and Manchester City,” one source explained. “He saw how Núñez would shoot from impossible angles instead of passing to open teammates like Salah or Díaz. It frustrated him.”
### Linking to Liverpool’s Recent Defeat
Osimhen went further by connecting his criticism to Liverpool’s shock 2-1 defeat to Fulham last weekend. “That loss tonight? It’s on him,” he declared. “Selfish decisions in the box, no link-up play. Liverpool have world-class talent, but one rotten apple spoils the bunch. I told my agent: ‘No way I’m walking into that mess.’”
That match saw Núñez lose possession during a risky solo run, leading to Fulham’s winning counterattack – an error that seemed to echo Osimhen’s complaints. Fans quickly took to social media, with one viral comment reading: *“Núñez is a liability – Osimhen dodged a bullet.”*
### Osimhen’s Form at Galatasaray
Since joining Galatasaray on loan from Napoli, Osimhen has been unstoppable, scoring 22 goals in 28 appearances and spearheading the club’s domestic double. Despite this success, he has made it clear that the Premier League remains a long-term goal.
“Liverpool was close, but not with that attitude,” he said. “Arsenal or Chelsea? Maybe. But I want a team that plays for each other.”
Napoli, who included a €75 million release clause in his contract, are reportedly open to a permanent transfer, though Osimhen’s wage demands of €12 million annually may limit suitors.
### Liverpool’s Response
Manager Arne Slot, who opted instead for Alexander Isak (€125 million) and Hugo Ekitike (€79 million), brushed aside suggestions of regret before tonight’s game: *“We’re happy with our forwards. Victor is quality, but fit is everything.”*
With Núñez dropped to the bench and speculation swirling about a January exit, the timing of Osimhen’s comments could not be more disruptive. As Galatasaray prepare to face Liverpool under the lights in Istanbul, the striker who slipped through Anfield’s fingers now has the chance to haunt them on the pitch as well.
