Mario Lemina has described Victor Osimhen as the best striker he has ever played with, praising the Nigerian forward’s relentless energy, determination and overall impact at Galatasaray.
Speaking in an interview with Djibril Drame, the Gabon international revealed that despite sharing the pitch with several world-class forwards during his career, none have impressed him as much as the Super Eagles star.
Lemina listed former teammates such as Pierre‑Emerick Aubameyang, Gonzalo Higuaín, André‑Pierre Gignac, and Radamel Falcao, but insisted Osimhen stands out because of his extraordinary work rate and mentality.
According to Lemina, Osimhen’s influence goes far beyond scoring goals. The striker constantly presses defenders, contributes defensively, and remains a constant threat in attack, qualities the midfielder says make him a complete forward.
Lemina also highlighted Osimhen’s intense competitive nature, explaining that the Nigerian hates losing and always demands the highest standards from himself and his teammates.
“I've played with forwards like Aubameyang, Higuain, Gignac, Falcao, but there's no one like Victor Osimhen. He's one of a kind,” Lemina said.
Lemina also added, “Even if he doesn't score, he's constantly contributing, constantly a threat. Always pressing. He defends with us. On top of that, he's a complete finisher. I've never seen such a hungry forward.
“He hates losing, and when we lose, he won't talk to you (laughing). The next day, he puts on his headphones and doesn't talk to anyone. But these are good habits. It's a fantastic thing."
Osimhen has become a central figure for Galatasaray since linking up with Lemina, with the pair developing a strong on-field partnership over the past two seasons.
The Nigerian striker has enjoyed a prolific spell in Istanbul, setting the record for the most goals scored by a foreign player in a single season at the club while on loan. His goals helped the Turkish giants secure both the league title and domestic cup.
In Europe, Osimhen has also been crucial in the club’s campaign in the UEFA Champions League. The Super Eagles star has scored seven goals in the competition and recently assisted Lemina in Galatasaray’s important 1–0 win over Liverpool FC in the first leg of their round-of-16 tie.
With his goals, pressing and leadership continuing to drive the team forward, Osimhen’s performances have reinforced Lemina’s belief that the Nigerian forward is truly a one-of-a-kind striker.
