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Victor Osimhen reveals long-term effects of 2021 facial injury: โI can only eat on one sideโ
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria and Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has opened up on the lasting impact of the horrific facial injury he suffered in 2021, explaining why he continues to wear a protective mask nearly four years later.
In a video shared on X on Tuesday by user ๐๐ฌ๐๐ค๐ฒ๐๐๐, the 26-year-old told Turkish outlet Fanatik that nerve damage from the incident still affects basic functions such as eating.
โNow, I only eat on the right side of my face,โ Osimhen said. โI canโt eat through the other side. The left side doesnโt function properly anymore.โ
The forward suffered multiple facial fractures โ including a broken cheekbone and eye socket โ during a Serie A clash between Napoli and Inter Milan in November 2021 after colliding with Milan ล kriniar. He underwent reconstructive surgery that required 18 screws and a titanium plate.
Doctors initially feared he might lose vision in his left eye. Although he eventually recovered and returned to action, Osimhen said he has never regained full nerve function.
โI still feel numbness and sometimes pain,โ he added. โWhen I smile, only one side of my mouth moves fully. Eating is the biggest daily reminder; food falls out if I try to use the left side.โ
Recalling the moment of impact, Osimhen said:
โA cross came in from the wing. I went up for the header, and he pulled his head back. It wasnโt intentional, but I hit his skull with my chin and the bone shattered everywhere. They took me to a hospital in Milanโฆ The doctor said, โYou need surgery.โ I refused at firstโฆ but it was the only way to continue playing football.โ
Osimhen, who moved to Galatasaray on loan from Napoli, has scored 12 goals and provided five assists in 15 appearances across competitions this season.
The protective mask, initially prescribed after surgery, has remained essential equipment due to the permanent nerve damage and ongoing discomfort.
