Bright Osayi-Samuel Talks Besiktas Move Collapse, Media Pressure

Super Eagles right-back Bright Osayi‑Samuel has revealed the circumstances behind his collapsed move to Turkish giants Besiktas. Recently joining Birmingham City after four years at Fenerbahçe, the 27 year old explained that media reports about Besiktas were misleading and largely influenced by sensationalism.

Osayi‑Samuel, who had been heavily linked with Besiktas, said he had no interest in joining the Istanbul side, stating: “There was interest from Besiktas… they spoke to my agent but I never had interest to go there.” He dismissed claims that financial demands made by his father derailed the deal as reflective of the “Turkish way” of writing transfer stories.

Reflecting on his Fenerbahçe tenure, Osayi‑Samuel said the club played a significant role in his development. “It was a good and bad experience… I went there as a boy and they turned me into a man.” He added that the intense atmosphere of Turkish derbies had prepared him for high-pressure environments in football.

He revealed that a FaceTime conversation with a decision-making group including Birmingham City manager Chris Davies, club owner Wagner, and co-owner Tom Brady convinced him to return to England. With Birmingham now targeting promotion to the Premier League, Osayi‑Samuel says he is focused on moving past transfer headlines and helping his new club reach its goals.

Editorial

We appreciate Osayi‑Samuel’s candidness in addressing the transfer saga. In an era where players are often caricatured through the media, his willingness to assert the truth rather than remain silent reflects confidence and professionalism.

It also underscores the importance of narrative control. Suggesting his father was at fault was unfair and reflective of sensationalist reporting rather than fact. By clarifying his stance, Osayi‑Samuel reminds us that transparency and player agency matter in football storytelling.

His reflections on Fenerbahçe provide insight into his character. Yes, football’s pressures can break a player but they can also forge them. His description of coming in as “a boy” and leaving “a man” is revealing. It speaks to the resilience solidified over four rigorous years in one of football’s most passionate leagues.

Turning down Besiktas for Birmingham was a choice grounded in ambition, not compromise. He prioritised opportunity, project and vision over simply chasing headlines or financial gain. That decision could well shape the next phase of his career.

We believe Osayi‑Samuel’s return to England—and specifically to Birmingham—represents the kind of move that balances ambition, realism and long-term growth. There’s no drama here, just deliberate progression.

Did You Know?

1. Bright Osayi‑Samuel spent four seasons at Fenerbahçe, becoming a key defensive figure and playing over 100 league games.
2. His move to Birmingham City was finalised in August 2025, signing a two-year contract as the club aims for Premier League promotion.
3. Osayi‑Samuel’s potential Besiktas transfer was widely reported in Turkey, with unverified claims about his father’s influence prompting widespread mockery.
4. The Birmingham City recruitment process included a FaceTime call with club owner Wagner Ribeiro and Tom Brady, highlighting their active involvement in transfers.
5. Osayi‑Samuel’s mooted switch to Besiktas was opposed by Fenerbahçe fans due to the fierce rivalry between the two Istanbul clubs.