Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen is set to make his long-awaited return in the Champions League next week, easing fears of a lengthy absence and delivering relief to the Turkish champions, reports confirmed.
According to Kemerburgaz, Osimhen will skip the domestic league clash against Eyüpspor to avoid aggravating his ankle.
With preparations focused on him leading the frontline against Frankfurt in Thursday’s European opener.
“Osimhen is expected to be rested and not risked in the league match away to Eyüpspor, with plans for him to start in the line-up for the Champions League clash in Frankfurt next Thursday evening,” Fanatik quoted Kemerburgaz.
The Nigerian striker picked up an ankle injury while on international duty during a World Cup qualifier against Rwanda.
He was forced off in the 35th minute after collapsing in pain, sparking immediate concerns in Istanbul over his availability for key fixtures.
Galatasaray swiftly dispatched a private jet to fly him back for urgent tests.
Medical scans confirmed a moderate sprain with ligament bleeding in the ankle.
The club later issued a statement signed by team doctor Yener İnce, which read:
“Tests conducted at our sponsor hospital revealed a moderate sprain with bleeding in the ankle ligaments of our player Victor Osimhen. Treatment has begun to ensure his return to the pitch as soon as possible.”
The update brought major relief to Galatasaray fans, many of whom feared the worst when the 26-year-old went down in Kigali.
Osimhen, who netted 37 goals in 41 matches last season, remains pivotal to the club’s European push after sealing a record €75m transfer from Napoli. His rapid recovery is being viewed as essential for manager Okan Buruk’s continental plans.
Reports suggest the forward met with Buruk immediately upon his return to Istanbul, assuring the coach of his commitment to make sacrifices for the club’s Champions League campaign, which Galatasaray have tagged as a top priority this season.
His return is especially significant given the uncertainty around Mauro Icardi’s fitness.
The Argentine remains short of full match sharpness, meaning Barış Yılmaz is tipped to lead the line against Eyüpspor while Osimhen is carefully managed. The club insists no unnecessary risks will be taken with their record signing.
