Former Wolves captain Mario Lemina recently commented on his January transfer to Galatasaray.
Lemina was stripped of captaincy after the Gabon international was involved in ugly full-time scenes at the London Stadium.
Gary O’Neil had no choice but to hand the armband to Nelson Semedo, who is a highly regarded leader in Vitor Pereira’s current squad.
Pereira had difficult dealings with Lemina before his exit, as the former captain refused to play before forcing a move to Galatasaray, where he’s since become a key part of Okan Buruk’s plans.
Mario Lemina says he left Wolves to make history with Galatasaray
Wolves fans were unhappy with Lemina in the build-up to his transfer, as the 31-year-old announced his exit before the Old Gold did.
Still, the West Midlands side have made peace with the situation, as Lemina is not a player missed at Molineux.
Almost four months after his Wolves exit, the Gabon international has spoken about why he decided to leave the Premier League, insisting that he wanted to return to Galatasaray to make history.
“The fans were very supportive of me when I first arrived. They were supportive even before they came,” Lemina told the media.
“Galatasaray is making history right now. So, I wanted to go back and take part in this history.”
The ex-Wolves skipper was desperate to re-sign for his former loan club to be a part of history in Istanbul, which, in his defence, he is close to achieving.
Lemina on course for silverware-laden season
Lemina has become a regular in Buruk’s squad since signing for the Lions, and is in touching distance of silverware.
Galatasaray are running away with the Super Lig and are set to face Trabzonspor in the Turkish cup final, with a historic double there for Lemina to win.
| # | Club | Wins | Draws | Losses | Points |
| 1 | Galatasaray | 27 | 5 | 1 | 86 |
| 2 | Fenerbahce | 24 | 6 | 3 | 78 |
In 14 appearances in the 2024/25 calendar for Galatasaray, Lemina has contributed to three goals, playing his part from central midfield.
Wolves don’t miss the former captain as Pereira has found success with his pivot of Joao Gomes and Andre.
Still, to some, it’s uplifting to see the former player do well.