Super Eagles talisman Victor Osimhen has reportedly made a direct request to be included in the starting lineup for Galatasaray’s upcoming Turkish Super Lig encounter against Gençlerbirliği. The league leaders are set to travel to face the relegation-threatened side this Saturday, with the Nigerian striker eager to spearhead the attack after a period on the sidelines.
The prolific forward reached a significant milestone in his recovery on Wednesday, participating in a full training session with the rest of the squad for the first time since sustaining a forearm injury during a high-intensity match against Liverpool. Following the conclusion of the team’s drills, reports from Takvim suggest that Osimhen held a private discussion with manager Okan Buruk to formally express his readiness and desire to feature in the opening eleven.
Galatasaray’s recent form has highlighted the void left by the striker’s absence. The Istanbul giants have endured a difficult stretch, suffering a narrow 2-1 defeat to championship contenders Trabzonspor and followed by a frustrating 1-1 stalemate against Kocaelispor last Sunday. These consecutive setbacks have seen their advantage at the summit of the Super Lig standings dwindle to a precarious two-point margin.
As the title race intensifies, the potential return of Osimhen provides a timely boost for Buruk’s tactical plans. The coaching staff must now decide whether to thrust the striker back into a starting role immediately or manage his minutes carefully to avoid a recurrence of his injury. For the player, however, the goal is clear: to return to the pitch from the first whistle and help the Lions restore their dominance in the domestic league.
