German automobile giant Mercedes-Benz has reportedly lodged a formal complaint with the Italian Carabinieri against Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen over an alleged failure to complete payments for a leased luxury vehicle.
The Nigerian international, widely regarded as one of the most prolific strikers in global football, has enjoyed a remarkable rise through European football, making successful stops in Belgium, France, Italy, and most recently Turkey.
Osimhen’s most defining achievements came during his time in Serie A and the Turkish Süper Lig, where he played key roles in securing league titles for Napoli and Galatasaray.
During his four-year spell with Napoli, the striker guided the Italian club to their first Serie A title in nearly four decades, a historic feat that cemented his status as a club icon in Naples.
His subsequent move to Galatasaray last summer came with a lucrative financial package, reportedly making him the highest-paid player in the history of the Turkish topflight.
The Super Eagles star is believed to earn more than €20 million annually, a figure reflected in his luxurious lifestyle.
Osimhen has also become known for his generosity, regularly supporting family members, close associates and fans.
Just last weekend, he reportedly sponsored a group of Nigerian supporters to travel to Istanbul for the derby clash against Fenerbahce, where he scored in Galatasaray’s emphatic 3-0 victory.
Despite his substantial earnings, reports emerging from Italy suggest the striker may be facing financial complications tied to an automobile transaction.
According to Napolista, Mercedes-Benz has alerted Italian authorities over what it described as an unresolved debt linked to a vehicle leased to Osimhen in 2023.
The company reportedly alleged that the striker failed to complete the purchase process for the car and also did not return the vehicle after the lease arrangement expired.
The unresolved matter has allegedly resulted in an outstanding debt of €90,000, approximately ₦142 million.
The claim has generated surprise among football followers, especially given that Osimhen’s weekly earnings have reportedly exceeded that amount since his title-winning campaign with Napoli.
Osimhen is known for his love of luxury items, particularly expensive jewellery and high-end automobiles.
In a recent feature with a content creator, the striker displayed part of his car collection, which included two Lamborghinis, a Rolls-Royce, and a Mercedes-Benz, the latter now believed to be the vehicle at the centre of the dispute.
As of the time of this report, neither Osimhen nor his management team has issued an official statement regarding the allegations.
Observers believe the matter will likely be addressed swiftly to avoid reputational damage and ensure the player remains focused on his football commitments in Turkey.
What You Should Know
Victor Osimhen is one of Africa’s most celebrated footballers, having risen from humble beginnings in Lagos to become a global football star.
He made history by helping Napoli win their first Serie A title in 33 years and has continued his impressive form at Galatasaray. Beyond football, Osimhen is admired for his charitable acts and support for fans.
The reported Mercedes-Benz dispute, if confirmed, would mark an unusual off-field controversy for the striker, whose reputation has largely been built on discipline, resilience, and consistent performances at the highest level of club football.
