Victor Osimhen could make his return to action for Galatasaray after the September international break as he continues his recovery from a muscle injury, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Turkish media reports indicate that the Nigerian striker is expected to be available for Galatasaray’s Süper Lig meeting with Kas?mpa?a on October 9, provided he completes his rehabilitation without further setbacks.
Osimhen was initially included in Nigeria’s squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, but his withdrawal was confirmed two days after the squad announcement.
“Victor Osimhen’s recovery from a muscle strain has been slower than expected. He was included in Nigeria’s squad for the AFCON qualifiers because Galatasaray and Super Eagles technical crew were hopeful he would be fit for the Super Lig game versus Trabzonspor and ready for the international window,” team media officer Promise Efoghe said.
The striker sustained the injury during Galatasaray’s league encounter with Ba?ak?ehir on September 4 and has subsequently missed matches against Sporting Lisbon, Kocaelispor and Trabzonspor.
His absence has opened the door for Coventry City striker Taiwo Awoniyi to return to the Super Eagles setup for the first time in two years.
Awoniyi was called up on Sunday after Osimhen’s withdrawal was confirmed by the national team medical team and will provide another option in attack for head coach Eric Chelle.
Tolu Arokodare, Akor Adams and Rafiu Durosinmi are also in contention for attacking roles, with the trio making strong cases through their performances for their respective clubs.
Before the injury setback, Osimhen had made an explosive start to the new campaign, scoring six goals and providing two assists in his first four appearances.
Galatasaray will therefore hope the 27-year-old completes his recovery as planned and returns to the squad in time for the Kas?mpa?a fixture.