Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen remains under close medical observation at Galatasaray as he continues his recovery from injury.
The forward suffered a thigh injury during Galatasaray’s Süper Lig fixture against Istanbul Basaksehir last month. The setback sidelined him through the international break, ruling him out of Nigeria’s opening two AFCON qualifying matches.
Initial reports suggested the 27-year-old marksman would return immediately after the break, with expectations high that he would feature against Kasimpasa this weekend.
Mario Lemina of Galatasaray SK celebrates with Victor Osimhen and Gabriel Sara. Copyright: ImagoxBSRxAgencyx
However, although Osimhen returned to the training ground on Wednesday, he did not participate in full team sessions. Instead, he performed some specialized routines before joining the rest of the team to train — a clear sign that he is not full ready for high-intensity action.
With Galatasaray facing Kasimpasa on Friday and Osimhen not yet at 100 percent, his involvement remains doubtful. He may make the matchday squad, but a starting role is unlikely.
Victor Osimhen in Kocaelispor vs Galatasaray. Copyright: ImagoxGokhanxTanerx
For Galatasaray, managing Osimhen’s fitness extends far beyond Friday’s league clash.
Barcelona Await After Kasimpasa: Will Victor Osimhen Be Fit?
Galatasaray have won just two of their last five meetings against Kasimpasa. Nevertheless, they head into Friday’s fixture as heavy favorites.
While Osimhen’s presence would provide a massive boost in attack, Galatasaray’s coaching staff must manage his workload carefully. Just four days after facing Kasimpasa, the Cimbom host Barcelona at Rams Park in a marquee UEFA Champions League match.
Victor Osimhen for Galatasaray (photo credit: ICON Sport)
Galatasaray enter the European clash as clear underdogs, but having Osimhen fit and firing gives them a significantly better chance of pulling off an upset. Ideally, manager Okan Buruk will want his talisman available for the full 90 minutes.
Consequently, even though Kasimpasa represent a potential banana skin, Galatasaray are likely to restrict Osimhen’s minutes this weekend to keep him fresh for Barcelona in midweek.
Galatasaray have noticeably lacked an attacking edge whenever Osimhen is absent. Still, while Kasimpasa is a winnable domestic test, Barcelona present a monumental challenge. With the striker still working his way back to full fitness, Okan Buruk faces a crucial balancing act.