Victor Osimhen is expected to be back in action within two weeks, according to Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek, who moved to calm fears over the striker’s latest injury setback.
The Nigerian forward, the club’s record signing and biggest investment in their history, picked up a hamstring problem while on international duty, forcing him off in the first half of Nigeria’s World Cup play off defeat to DR Congo. He didn’t reappear after the break, with Akor Adams coming on as the Super Eagles eventually crashed out on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
Osimhen returned to Istanbul for tests and an MRI revealed a mild hamstring tear with internal bleeding, sparking early concern that he might be sidelined for a lengthy spell. But Galatasaray’s medical team remain optimistic and have placed him on an accelerated rehab plan.
“His MRI was performed here,” Özbek told Turkish outlet Hurriyet. “He’ll likely have a recovery period of approximately two weeks. Our focus is on Osimhen being ready for the Fenerbahçe match. Our doctors are working on that.”
The update means the 26 year old will miss the league game against Gençlerbirliği as well as next week’s Champions League showdown with Union Saint-Gilloise. Both matches matter, particularly in Europe where Galatasaray are still fighting to secure qualification from their group, but the club appear ready to gamble with his schedule to ensure he’s fit for the derby.
The Fenerbahçe clash on December 1 is seen as season-defining in Turkey, often swinging title momentum one way or another, and Galatasaray want their star man leading the line. Osimhen, who has already shown flashes of his Napoli era form since joining in the summer, is viewed as key to their push on both domestic and continental fronts.
If all goes well, he could be eased back into training later this month before making his return in time for arguably the biggest fixture of Galatasaray’s season. For now, the club insists the injury is not serious but with Osimhen’s recent fitness history, fans will be watching every update closely.