Former Nigerian international Samuel Okunowo has advised his country-mate Bright Osayi-Samuel to “seek bigger adventures,” in the top five European leagues outside Fenerbahce and the Turkish Super League.
Speaking to Kick Off Nigeria in an exclusive interview, the former Barcelona and Benfica right-back has told Osayi-Samuel, who also predominantly plays in a similar position as the former, to exploit the available offers in the coming transfer window.
This comes in the midst of reports that have linked the 27-year-old from Fenerbahce, with many pointing links to Crystal Palace, Fulham, Leeds and most recently, rivals Galatasaray.
“In my honest opinion, I think he (Osayi-Samuel) has outgrown the Turkish league,” the 46-year-old started, before adding; “I believe there are many opportunities out there that he could explore, and to me, that’s what he should be working on.”
“No disrespect to Fenerbahce, who are under a world class coach (Jose Mourinho), but I think he has given them everything, and should be on the move. Again, moving to Galatasaray across the same country can only make his legacy disastrous.”
“I’m convinced a number of top teams in the Premier League, or Spain and Italy could do with his services. He’s a solid defender and a decent attacker. It’s even easier for him because he’s a free agent, but the decision at the end of the day lies with him.”
Osayi-Samuel has featured 33 times in the League, the Turkish Cup and the Europa League. Meanwhile, in his five-year spell, he has played 172, grabbing seven goals and as many assists. In the past, he played for Queens Park Rangers and Black Pool FC.
Meanwhile, the versatile defender, whose Transfermarkt valuation is estimated at €7 million, has made 22 competitive caps with the Nigeria senior national team, the Super Eagles.
