Osimhen Expected to Be Fit for Galatasaray–Fenerbahce Derby Despite Hamstring Scare

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen is expected to be fully fit for the highly anticipated Istanbul derby against Fenerbahce on Monday, December 1, according to TalkTalk Nigeria.

The Nigerian forward returned from international duty with a minor hamstring issue, raising concerns among fans and the club’s technical crew. Galatasaray confirmed on Wednesday that Osimhen had already begun treatment, a welcome update given the intensity of the upcoming fixture.

The 26-year-old will, however, sit out Saturday’s match against Gençlerbirliği as a precaution.
Turkish journalist Yakup Cinar further reassured supporters, stating confidently:

“He will play in the Fenerbahce Derby. Osimhen’s MRI scan was performed… his condition will improve. There’s no reason to worry.”

Opinion: Osimhen’s Return Could Be the Spark Galatasaray Needs

Osimhen’s availability for the derby is more than just good news — it could be the deciding factor between victory and disappointment. The Nigeria international has quickly become the emotional heartbeat of Galatasaray’s attack, and matches like the Istanbul derby demand personalities with his fire, hunger, and impact.

Derbies are not simply football games — they are battles of pride, history, and intensity.
And players like Osimhen thrive in that chaos.

His movement unsettles defenders.
His pace forces mistakes.
His mentality lifts teammates.

Missing him against Gençlerbirliği is a calculated risk, but saving him for a match of this magnitude is a smart move — both tactically and psychologically. Fenerbahce will not be comfortable knowing a fully charged Osimhen could be running at their backline.

And beyond the pitch, there is something deeper at play: Osimhen knows how to rise for big moments.
Whether at Napoli or with the Super Eagles, he has proven time and again that pressure doesn’t break him — it fuels him.

If he returns at full strength, Galatasaray fans may have every reason to believe their team can take control of the title race. And if Osimhen scores in the derby, his status in Istanbul football folklore could grow even bigger.