Mercedes‑Benz has lodged a complaint with Italy’s Carabinieri, alleging that Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has failed to settle payments for a leased vehicle and has not returned the car. The German automaker claims the 27‑year‑old owes approximately €90,000 (about ₦142 million) for a Mercedes‑Benz leased in 2023.
Osimhen, who currently plays for Galatasaray in the Turkish Süper Lig, is one of the most prolific forwards in world football. After successful spells in Belgium, France and Italy, he helped Napoli win the Serie A title in the 2022‑23 season – the club’s first Scudetto in 33 years. His performances earned him a high‑profile transfer to Galatasaray last summer, where he signed a contract that makes him the highest‑paid player in the history of the Turkish league, reportedly earning more than €20 million per year.
Despite his substantial earnings, the complaint suggests a discrepancy between Osimhen’s income and his financial obligations. According to a report by Napolista, Mercedes‑Benz informed Italian authorities that the striker did not complete the purchase of the leased vehicle and failed to return it, resulting in the outstanding debt. The automaker’s filing with the Carabinieri seeks to recover the amount owed.
The alleged debt comes at a time when Osimhen’s public image is closely linked to philanthropy and a lavish lifestyle. He frequently supports family, friends and fans, recently sponsoring a group of Nigerian supporters to travel to Istanbul for Galatasaray’s derby against Fenerbahçe, a match in which he scored in a 3‑0 victory. Social‑media posts have also shown him displaying a collection of luxury cars, including two Lamborghinis, a Rolls‑Royce and a Mercedes‑Benz, the latter likely being the vehicle in question.
Osimhen’s representatives have not issued a comment on the matter. The striker is expected to address the issue promptly to avoid any impact on his reputation and to maintain focus on his duties with Galatasaray. The outcome of the complaint will depend on the investigation by Italian authorities and any subsequent legal proceedings.
