Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek has provided fresh updates on Victor Osimhen’s recovery ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which is scheduled to take place from December 2025 to January 2026.
There have been concerns over Osimhen’s availability for the tournament after he picked up an injury during Nigeria’s CAF playoff final against DR Congo for the 2026 FIFA World Cup last Sunday. But Özbek has now offered reassurance, revealing that the prolific Nigerian striker is expected to return in December.
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Osimhen was ruled out of Galatasaray’s Super Lig fixture against Gençlerbirliği on Saturday, but the club remains optimistic about a swift recovery. He is projected to be fit for the high-profile Istanbul Derby against Fenerbahçe on December 1.
“His MRI was performed here. He’ll likely have a recovery period of approximately two weeks. Our focus is on Osimhen being ready for the Fenerbahçe match,” Özbek told Hürriyet.
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“Our doctors are working on that. We could have signed a centre forward for €40 million, but we know Osimhen. He is a player we trust. We can’t say the same about a €40 million signing we haven’t worked with.
“Signing Osimhen has benefited Galatasaray. We committed to paying his transfer fee during our term; we didn’t leave it to the next management.”
Özbek also highlighted Osimhen’s growing influence among young fans.
“Osimhen is a crucial figure in turning children into Galatasaray fans. This love began with Icardi. The love for Osimhen is similar. His number 45 is significant; I believe some of our rivals wear 45 because of him.”
Osimhen’s Super Eagles are drawn alongside Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia in Group C at the 2025 AFCON, hosted by Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
Since joining the Turkish champions, Osimhen has been in superb form, scoring nine goals in 12 matches across all competitions. His return for the Intercontinental Derby would provide a major boost for Okan Buruk’s side as they continue their title challenge.
