Osimhen Set for Derby Return as Galatasaray President Confirms Recovery

Victor Osimhen is expected to return to Galatasaray’s lineup on Monday for the Istanbul derby against Fenerbahçe. The update comes after the team’s 1–0 Champions League defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise, a result that left club president Dursun Özbek assuring fans that the squad would be at full strength.

Osimhen had suffered a hamstring injury while on international duty with Nigeria, limping off at halftime in the World Cup qualifier against DR Congo in Morocco. He later watched from the bench as the Super Eagles crashed out after a disappointing penalty shoot-out.

Initial tests revealed a moderate strain and bleeding in his left posterior muscle, and early estimates suggested he would be sidelined for about three weeks. His expected return was mid-December, shortly before Nigeria’s AFCON campaign.

However, Özbek confirmed that the striker has recovered earlier than planned. “Osimhen’s supposed to be on the roster on Monday, I guess…” he said, adding that other returning players would also be available. “We’re going to the field with a great team.”

Galatasaray sit just one point ahead of Fenerbahçe, making Monday’s derby crucial in the race for top spot.