Osimhen Relives Horror Injury That Nearly Ended His Career

Victor Osimhen has opened up about the harrowing facial injury that nearly ended his career, recalling in vivid detail the violent clash with Milan Škriniar during a Serie A match in the 2021/22 season.

The Nigerian striker, speaking in an interview with MMA fighter Kerim Engizek, described the moment as life-altering, both physically and emotionally.

The incident occurred in an aerial duel between Napoli and Inter Milan.

‘A ball came from the wing. I was trying to head the ball, and he snapped his head back. It wasn’t intentional, but I hit my jaw on his head, and the bone fractured all over,’ Osimhen explained.

The collision left him in excruciating pain and required immediate hospitalization in Milan.

Doctors quickly determined the severity of the damage, ordering scans that revealed multiple fractures.

‘The doctor first took an X-ray and then ordered an MRI. He said, ‘You need surgery,’’ Osimhen recalled.

Initially, the forward resisted the idea of undergoing major reconstructive surgery, stunned by the diagnosis.

‘At first, I objected, saying, ‘It’s impossible, I won’t have surgery.’ But it was the only way I could continue playing football. I had to have the surgery.’

The operation was complex, involving intricate reconstruction of the shattered bones. Recovery demanded not only physical resilience but also psychological strength.

A custom-made protective mask became his lifeline, shielding the repaired facial structure and enabling him to return to the pitch.

To this day, Osimhen continues to wear the mask, a symbol of both his survival and determination to thrive at the highest level.