Odion Ighalo has revealed that he would like to see Victor Osimhen play for Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal in the future, one of the clubs the former Nigeria international represented in his career. 

Al-Hilal was a potential destination for the former African Footballer of the Year before his move to Galatasaray, initially joining the Turkish Super Lig side on loan for the 2024-25 season before signing a permanent contract last summer after leading them to a league and cup double.

Al-Hilal offered a staggering €40 million per season and were prepared to meet Osimhen's €75 million release clause, but the Super Eagles striker chose to continue his career in Europe instead, citing sporting reasons. 

2019 Africa Cup of Nations top scorer Ighalo enjoyed a prolific spell at Al-Hilal, netting 43 goals in 60 appearances across all competitions and helping the club secure the Saudi Pro League title in 2021-22, followed by a King Cup triumph the next season.

Speaking on Osimhen's decision to join Galatasaray, Ighalo emphasised that players must make choices based on what they believe is best for their careers and ambitions.

"Well, these are not mistakes, because as players we have to make our own decisions. For me, I wished he had gone to Al-Hilal, but Galatasaray is a big club, the biggest in Turkey, and they participate in the Champions League and perform well. And most importantly, he is performing well there with Galatasaray," Ighalo told Winwin. 

He added: "For me, and out of love for Al-Hilal as it is one of the teams I played for in Saudi Arabia, I wished that Osimhen would join it. Perhaps not now, but after the end of his experience with Galatasaray, he can still move to Al-Hilal later."

Osimhen has scored 52 goals in 64 games for Galatasaray and was instrumental on Tuesday as the Istanbul side defeated one of his former suitors, Juventus, in the UEFA Champions League. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel