Nigeria Players Abroad
Galatasaray President provides injury update on Osimhen, eyes return for Fenerbahçe clash
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek has offered clarity on several key issues surrounding the club, including the condition of star striker Victor Osimhen, his expected recovery timeline, and the significance behind his choice of jersey number 45.
Osimhen, who has rapidly endeared himself to supporters since his arrival in Istanbul, was substituted at halftime during Nigeria’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff defeat to DR Congo. He subsequently missed Galatasaray’s training sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, raising alarm over a potential long-term setback.
The club later confirmed that the Nigerian forward underwent an MRI scan at partner hospital Acıbadem, which revealed a moderate muscle strain accompanied by bleeding in the posterior region of his left leg.
“His MRI was performed here. He’ll likely have a recovery period of approximately two weeks,” Özbek said. “Our focus is on Osimhen being ready for the Fenerbahçe match. Our doctors are working toward that.”
Speaking further, the president addressed the club’s decision to invest heavily in Osimhen this summer.
“We could have signed a centre forward for €30–40 million, but we know Osimhen—his quality is proven,” he noted.
“Signing him has benefitted Galatasaray, regardless of the difference in cost. We committed to paying his transfer fee during our term and didn’t leave it to the next management.”
Özbek also highlighted the striker’s growing influence on the club’s fanbase, particularly among young supporters.
“Osimhen is a crucial figure in turning children into Galatasaray fans. This love started with Icardi, and now it continues with Osimhen,” he said.
“His number 45 carries significance. I believe some of our rivals wear 45 because of their admiration for him.”
While Osimhen faces a brief spell on the sidelines, the diagnosis has eased concerns within the Nigerian national team setup.
After back-to-back World Cup qualifying disappointments, the Super Eagles have shifted focus to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and Osimhen’s projected recovery offers timely optimism ahead of their preparations.
