Osimhen Shares Lasting Impact of 2021 Jaw Injury

Victor Osimhen has opened up on the long-term effects of the severe facial injury he suffered while playing for Napoli in 2021. The Super Eagles forward collided with Inter Milan’s Milan Skriniar during an aerial duel, leaving him concussed and briefly unconscious. Scans later showed multiple facial fractures, including a broken jaw and damage so serious that, as he revealed, his left eye “came out of its socket.”

The striker underwent major surgery, with “six plates and eighteen screws” implanted. He described it as “a near-death injury,” adding, “I fractured many bones … I went through a lot.” Osimhen said the pain left him with “a lot of sleepless nights” and difficulty eating, but he fought through it, saying, “I am a lion.”

Since then, the 26-year-old has been required to wear a protective mask. Speaking to MMA champion Kerim Engizek, he explained one lasting limitation:

Now, I only eat on the right side of my face … There are several pieces of metal on that side … so I can’t risk it.

Despite the challenges, Osimhen remains a top performer for club and country, with 41 of his 191 career goals scored with his head.