Nigeria international Bright Osayi-Samuel has revealed that family loyalty played a decisive role in blocking a potential move to Besiktas despite interest from the Istanbul side.
The 28 year old, who joined Birmingham City on a three-year deal in July 2025 after four years with Fenerbahçe explained that the proposed transfer was never truly in his control.
Speaking in an interview, Osayi-Samuel pointed to his father’s deep-rooted allegiance to Fenerbahce as a major obstacle.
“My dad is a Fenerbahce fan, he wouldn’t let me go to Besiktas.”
He clarified that discussions with Besiktas were initiated by his former agent and did not reflect his own intentions or those of his family.
“The deal with Besiktas was an agreement made with my former agent. It had nothing to do with me or my dad. My dad is a very hardcore Fenerbahce supporter, really hardcore.”
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Osayi-Samuel added that even if he had been open to the move, it would have been difficult to go against his father’s stance, given the intense rivalry between the two clubs.
“Even if I wanted to sign for Besiktas, my dad would never let me go. Besiktas contacted my former agent and wanted me to come.”
He was, however, careful to show respect to Besiktas, stressing that his preference at the time was either to remain at Fenerbahce or return home.
“I didn’t want to disrespect Besiktas, but I wanted to go home. It was either Fenerbahce or going home.”
The Nigerian also addressed speculation surrounding his departure from Fenerbahce, dismissing claims that he had made fresh contract demands.
According to Osayi-Samuel, an initial offer was made and accepted during the tenure of sporting director Mario Branco, but complications emerged during a period when he was changing agents.
He said misinformation about his contract situation was circulated without his knowledge, which led to frustration and ultimately prompted him to part ways with his then-representative.
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The situation, he explained, contributed to widespread rumours about his future before he eventually finalised his move to Birmingham City, bringing an end to his time in Turkey.
