Galatasaray coach addresses Victor Osimhen injury concern

Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has provided an update on the injury situation of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen following Friday night’s hard fought 3-2 win over Istanbul Basaksehir, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 27-year-old was forced off in the 33rd minute after appearing to suffer a muscle problem. Osimhen signalled to the bench that he could not continue and was subsequently replaced by Baris Alper Yilmaz.

Before his injury, the Nigerian striker had opened the scoring for Galatasaray with a brilliant effort from outside the box. His shot struck the underside of the crossbar before going into the net.

The goal was Osimhen’s sixth of the 2026-27 season and took his tally to eight goal contributions in just four games. He has now scored in every match Galatasaray have played so far this season, having also found the net against Corum, Erzurumspor and Goztepe.

Despite his early exit, Galatasaray continued their unbeaten start to the season, although they were made to work hard for the three points.

Eldor Shomurodov equalised for Istanbul Basaksehir after the hour mark from a controversial penalty. Lucas Torreira restored Galatasaray’s lead, but a Davinson Sanchez own goal brought the home side level again in the 76th minute.

However, Gabriel Sara stepped up in stoppage time, curling home a free kick to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory for the Turkish champions and send them top of the standings after five rounds of matches.

Buruk provides injury update on Victor Osimhen

There were some encouraging signs for Galatasaray and Nigeria after the game, as Osimhen was able to walk off the pitch and was also seen walking around after the final whistle. The Super Eagles striker appeared to be in good spirits and was seen smiling, suggesting that the injury may not be serious.

Speaking after the victory, Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk revealed that Osimhen would undergo an MRI scan to determine the extent of the problem. 

“Lemina had groin pain during yesterday’s training. Osimhen also felt something today. We need to see their MRIs. Hopefully it’s nothing serious, and we can get them ready for the next European match, God willing”, he said, via Forza Cimbom.

Victor Osimhen will now be hoping that the injury is not serious enough to keep him out for long, with Galatasaray facing a busy run of fixtures.

The Turkish champions are scheduled to begin their 2026-27 Champions League campaign against Sporting CP on Wednesday, although the Nigerian striker is now a doubt for that encounter.

However, if the injury proves to be minor, Osimhen could still be available for Galatasaray’s Super Lig clash against Kocaelispor at Rams Park next weekend.