Victor Osimhen stole the spotlight in the Champions League earlier this week, netting the decisive goal in Galatasaray’s 1–0 win over Liverpool. His match-winning performance electrified the home crowd, but his early exit in the second half—subbed off for Mauro Icardi with just under 20 minutes to play—sparked immediate concern among supporters.
Those worries intensified when the Nigerian striker did not participate in the team’s final training session before the upcoming derby. Osimhen recently returned from an ankle injury that kept him on the sidelines last month, and his absence raised questions about whether he had suffered a setback.
Head coach Okan Buruk, however, moved quickly to calm the situation. Addressing the media, he clarified that the decision to rest Osimhen was entirely precautionary. According to Buruk, the forward felt cramps and general fatigue after playing a full-intensity match for the first time in weeks. “He has no serious issues,” Buruk reassured. “After such a long break, it’s normal for him to feel some discomfort. We gave him a rest during the last session, and we expect him to rejoin the squad in the next training.”
Osimhen’s potential return is a major boost for Galatasaray ahead of one of Turkey’s most heated derby clashes. At 26, his explosive speed, physical presence, and sharp finishing make him one of the team’s most dangerous weapons. With the title race tightening and pressure rising, having Osimhen available could prove decisive.
As anticipation builds for the derby, Galatasaray fans will be relieved to hear that their star striker is on course to feature—ready once again to deliver when it matters most.
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