Galatasaray president Dursun Ozbek has provided crucial updates on Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen's injury recovery, confirming the Super Eagles star is targeting a return for the highly anticipated Istanbul derby against Fenerbahce on December 1.
Injury Setback During International Duty
The record-breaking €75 million striker suffered a moderate strain with bleeding in his left hind muscle while representing Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final against DR Congo. Coach Eric Chelle substituted Osimhen at halftime during the penalty shootout loss that ended Nigeria's World Cup qualification hopes.
Medical assessments conducted upon Osimhen's return to Galatasaray confirmed the extent of the injury, forcing him to miss two crucial matches for the Turkish champions. The Nigerian forward was absent during Galatasaray's 3-2 league victory over Genclerbirligi and their disappointing 1-0 Champions League defeat to Belgian side Royal USG.
President Ozbek Addresses Fan Concerns
Speaking to Ekol TV, President Dursun Ozbek moved to calm growing concerns among Galatasaray supporters about the team's performance without their star striker. The 76-year-old club executive expressed confidence in his squad's ability to deliver in the high-pressure derby atmosphere.
"Our fans should not worry. Galatasaray will perform at the highest level on the field in the derby. Our players returning from injury will also be in the squad. I hope this will be a great match, and I hope Galatasaray will be the winner," Ozbek assured supporters.
Osimhen's Determined Comeback Push
Despite not appearing in Galatasaray's recent training pictures shared on their official Instagram page, the club president revealed that Osimhen is personally driving his recovery to feature in the massive derby encounter. The Nigerian international understands the significance of the Fenerbahce clash and doesn't want to be sidelined for such a crucial match.
"Our players returning from injury will be in the squad for the Fenerbahçe derby. Osimhen should be in the squad on Monday, and he probably will be. That's the goal in our discussions so far," Ozbek concluded, highlighting the positive progress in Osimhen's rehabilitation.
Galatasaray's Dependency on Osimhen
The concern among Galatasaray faithful became particularly evident after their Champions League setback against Royal USG, marking the second European defeat in matches where Osimhen was unavailable. Statistical analysis reveals a stark contrast in the Turkish champions' performance with and without their Nigerian marksman.
The team has suffered defeats in both Champions League matches Osimhen has missed this season, while securing victories in all three European encounters where he featured. This pattern underscores his vital importance to Galatasaray's attacking dynamics and overall team success.
AFCON Participation Concerns Loom
Beyond the immediate derby concerns, questions remain about Osimhen's availability for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations scheduled to begin on December 21. While FIFA regulations mandate player release by December 8, Galatasaray and other top European clubs are expected to negotiate for extended availability of their key players.
This injury marks the second time this season that Osimhen has returned from international duty with Nigeria carrying fitness issues, raising concerns about the striker's workload management between club and country commitments.
The upcoming derby against Fenerbahce represents not only a crucial domestic fixture but also a significant test of Osimhen's recovery progress as Galatasaray aims to maintain their competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions.
