Osimhen injury blow leaves Galatasaray vulnerable ahead of Fenerbahçe derby
Galatasaray’s march toward the Süper Lig title has been dealt a major setback as the club prepares for Monday’s Intercontinental Derby against fierce rivals Fenerbahçe at Chobani Stadium.
Sitting top of the table with 32 points from 13 matches, Okan Buruk’s side now faces its sternest test yet, with injuries threatening to derail their momentum in what could prove a season-defining fixture.
The most damaging blow is the confirmed absence of Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian striker, who has been the Lions’ talisman with 12 league goals and six in the Champions League, suffered a hamstring strain while on international duty against Congo on November 16.
MRI scans revealed moderate muscle bleeding in his left thigh, ruling him out of the derby.
Buruk admitted the forward was desperate to play but insisted caution was necessary: ‘He’s desperate to play, but minor aches and fatigue make it too risky. We can’t jeopardize his long-term fitness.’
Osimhen’s absence strips Galatasaray of their most physical presence in attack, a player who has won 68% of his duels this season.
His loss will be felt against a Fenerbahçe side boasting dangerous attackers such as Talisca, Marco Asensio, and Kerem Aktürkoğlu.
