Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Sudesh Singh has praised Galatasaray fans for the emotional tribute to Victor Osimhen ahead of the start of Tuesday's Champions League encounter against Liverpool at Rams Park.

Despite his reputation as one of football’s toughest strikers, Osimhen was overcome with emotion inside a packed stadium when a moment from the crowd left him visibly moved.

Ahead of kickoff at Rams Park, supporters of Galatasaray unveiled a massive banner in the stands.

Unlike the usual displays celebrating goals, trophies or club pride, this tribute carried a far more personal message centred on family.

In one of the most heartfelt gestures by the Galatasaray faithful, the tifo was dedicated to Osimhen’s late mother, honouring the woman who sacrificed so much to support his dream.

The Nigerian striker could not hold back his tears the moment he saw the tifo. 

Former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Singh noted that the emotional gesture highlighted the unique bond between the player and Galatasaray’s passionate fanbase.

Speaking on SuperSport's Soccer Africa, monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com, Singh said: "That's why the game is called the beautiful game. When they played Liverpool in the Champions League, Galatasaray fans paid tribute to his late mother. As he stood before the kickoff, he actually cried.

"That shows you the beauty of the game. They appreciated what he does for the club, and we know Galatasaray is one of the giants of European football. That's how much they respect him and want him to stay at the club."

Osimhen's impressive performances have not gone unnoticed by Europe's elite clubs and questions remain about where the former African Footballer of the Year will be playing next season.

Singh claimed that three Premier League giants as well as La Liga table toppers Barcelona are monitoring the former Napoli star.

"This week, three or four big clubs want to put in a big offer – Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool Barcelona. 

"The environment is right. He needs to play at that level, in England or Spain."

Osimhen has directly participated in eight goals in this season's UEFA Champions League, scoring seven times and providing one assist, the highest goal involvement ever recorded by a Nigerian player in a single campaign in the competition.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel