Osimhen Set for Galatasaray Return After International Break as Injury Recovery Continues

Victor Osimhen is expected to return to action for Galatasaray after the first international break of the 2026/27 season as the Nigeria striker continues his recovery from a muscle injury.

Reports from Turkish media indicate that Osimhen could be back in Galatasaray’s squad for the club’s Süper Lig meeting with Kasımpaşa on October 9, provided his recovery progresses as expected.

The former African Footballer of the Year was initially included in Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. However, he was withdrawn from the team two days after the squad was announced.

Galatasaray’s medical concerns had already raised doubts over his availability. Team media officer Promise Efoghe said Osimhen’s recovery from the muscle strain had been slower than expected, despite hopes that he would recover in time for the club’s league fixture against Trabzonspor and the international window.

Osimhen suffered the injury during Galatasaray’s match against Başakşehir on September 4. Since then, he has missed games against Sporting Lisbon, Kocaelispor and Trabzonspor.

His absence has opened the door for Coventry City striker Taiwo Awoniyi to return to the Super Eagles squad for the first time in two years. Awoniyi was called up after Osimhen’s withdrawal was confirmed by the team’s medical staff.

Nigeria also has Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams and Rafiu Durosinmi available as attacking options for the AFCON qualifiers. All three have been making strong claims for regular involvement through their performances for their respective clubs.

Osimhen had made an impressive start to the new campaign before the injury, scoring six goals and providing two assists in his first four matches. Galatasaray will now hope his recovery remains on track ahead of his expected return in October.