Galatasaray are sweating over the fitness of star striker Victor Osimhen ahead of their Champions League curtain-raiser against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday night, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian forward has been battling to shake off an injury sustained during the recent international break.
Osimhen limped out of Nigeria’s 1-0 win over Rwanda earlier this month after just a few minutes, with the problem later ruling him out of the Super Eagles’ draw against South Africa.
The former Lille star also sat out Galatasaray’s weekend Super Lig victory over Eyüpspor.
Despite the setbacks, reports in Turkey suggest Osimhen is pushing to feature in Frankfurt.
Local outlet Fanatik claim the striker has personally assured Galatasaray’s coaching staff that he is prepared to take painkilling injections if necessary to be available for the clash. An MRI scan carried out after he linked up with the squad in Germany reportedly offered encouraging results, raising hopes of his involvement.
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The 26-year-old’s determination is no surprise. Osimhen has fond memories of Frankfurt, having scored three times against them during the 2022–23 season, his best record against any side in European competition. His presence would undoubtedly sharpen Galatasaray’s attack as they aim to begin their Champions League campaign with a statement result.
For now, though, he remains on a tight schedule. Osimhen skipped Tuesday’s group training at the club’s Kemerburgaz Metin Oktay facilities, with official photos confirming his absence. The plan is for him to rejoin the squad in Wednesday’s final session before the team departs for Germany.
Galatasaray boss Okan Buruk will be wary of rushing his star striker back too quickly, particularly with a long season ahead.
Still, the importance of Osimhen to the Turkish champions cannot be overstated. His explosive pace, physical presence, and ruthless finishing make him the focal point of their attack, and Frankfurt will breathe easier if he is missing.
The countdown to kick-off has now become a personal race against time for Osimhen.
Whether he makes the starting XI, appears from the bench, or sits out entirely will likely be decided just hours before kick-off.