Victor Osimhen Returns to Training Ahead of Crucial Istanbul Derby
Victor Osimhen is back in full training with Galatasaray ahead of Monday’s top-of-the-table clash with Fenerbahce, raising hopes that the Nigerian striker will feature in one of the Super Lig’s most anticipated fixtures.
The 26-year-old has been sidelined for the past two weeks with a hamstring injury sustained on international duty with Nigeria. His absence saw Galatasaray miss his attacking threat in last weekend’s away win at Istanbul Başakşehir and the midweek 1–0 defeat to Union Saint-Gilloise in the UEFA Champions League.
Pictured training alongside his teammates on Friday, Osimhen’s participation suggests that he is on course for a return against Fenerbahce at RAMS Park. Galatasaray will continue preparations on Saturday as they aim to sharpen their strategy ahead of the crucial showdown.
Currently, Galatasaray top the Super Lig table with 32 points after 13 matches, with Fenerbahce just one point behind—a reminder of how pivotal this derby could be in deciding the league race.
Opinion: Osimhen’s Return Could Decide the Title Race
The timing of Osimhen’s potential return could hardly be more critical. Derbies are often won by moments of individual brilliance, and Galatasaray have lacked that cutting edge in his absence. Against Fenerbahce, Osimhen’s pace, positioning, and clinical finishing could tilt the balance in a game expected to be tight and fiercely contested.
Galatasaray’s recent Champions League defeat highlighted their dependence on him. Without Osimhen, the Yellow and Reds struggled to break down opposition defenses—a pattern likely to repeat if he doesn’t play. His return, even at less than 100%, could lift the team both tactically and psychologically, giving them the confidence needed to fend off a Fenerbahce side hungry for points.
For Fenerbahce, this derby now carries added pressure. The presence of Osimhen changes the dynamics, forcing them to rethink their defensive approach and contain one of Europe’s most lethal forwards.
Monday’s fixture is more than just a city rivalry—it’s a title decider in miniature. And with Osimhen back in the fold, all eyes will be on him to deliver the moments of magic that could define Galatasaray’s season.




