Dursun Özbek, the president of Galatasaray, has provided a reassuring update regarding the health of Nigerian talisman Victor Osimhen following a surgical procedure in Istanbul on Monday. The high-profile forward underwent the operation to address an injury sustained during a physical UEFA Champions League encounter against Liverpool at Anfield. The incident occurred in the opening half following a heavy collision with French international defender Ibrahima Konaté, an impact that ultimately forced the striker out of the game.
The 27-year-old’s involvement in the European clash was prematurely cut short after he managed to navigate only the first 45 minutes of play. Recognizing the severity of the knock, the technical bench opted for a tactical substitution at the commencement of the second half, introducing Leroy Sané to lead the line in his stead. Following a personal visit to the medical facility to check on the reigning African Footballer of the Year, Özbek spoke to the press to dispel fears regarding the long-term implications of the injury.
Speaking via the Turkish outlet Sabah, the club chief shared his positive outlook:
“He’s doing very well and had a successful operation. We hope he can come back to play as soon as possible.”
Despite the successful nature of the medical intervention, the “Sarı-Kırmızılılar” are bracing for a significant period without their primary goal-scoring threat. Initial recovery timelines suggest that Osimhen will be sidelined for a minimum of one month, a duration that coincides with a congested fixture list as Galatasaray pursues silverware on multiple domestic fronts. This forced hiatus means the Nigerian star is expected to be absent for critical league showdowns against Trabzonspor, Göztepe, and Kocaelispor, in addition to being ruled out of the cup tie against Gençlerbirliği.
The objective for both the player and the club’s medical department is now centered on a specific date in the calendar. Osimhen is reportedly determined to finalize his rehabilitation in time for the titanic Intercontinental Derby against Fenerbahçe, scheduled to take place at Rams Park on April 26. While the team must find a way to maintain their momentum in his absence, the prospect of having their marquee striker available for the league’s most prestigious fixture remains a source of massive motivation for the Istanbul giants.
