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Victor Osimhen Injury Update: Okan Buruk Confirms Return for Fenerbahçe Derby

Tolu Shotade

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Last updated: Thu 09 Apr 2026 11:23

Tolu Shotade 2 hours ago

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Galatasaray win against Göztepe, leading Süper Lig title race.
Victor Osimhen nears an early recovery, eyeing return for key derby.
Okan Buruk addresses internal leaks, focusing on team unity.

Victor Osimhen

The race for the Turkish Süper Lig title received a massive jolt of energy following Galatasaray’s 3-1 victory over Göztepe on Wednesday.

While the win moved the Lions four points clear at the top of the table, the biggest news of the night came during head coach Okan Buruk’s post-match press conference.

Buruk provided a definitive update on Victor Osimhen, confirming that the Nigerian international is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a fractured forearm.

Field Rehabilitation and Training Milestones

Victor Osimhen sustained a fractured right forearm during a high-stakes UEFA Champions League clash against Liverpool at Anfield in March. After undergoing successful corrective surgery performed by Dr. Yener İnce, the 27-year-old spent the initial phase of his recovery restricted to gym work. However, the club’s medical department recently cleared him for on-field activities.

According to the latest update from the Florya Metin Oktay Facilities, Osimhen has officially transitioned to light running drills under the direct supervision of the team’s physiotherapists. The Nigerian striker is currently slated to return to full-team training on April 20, 2026.

This timeline suggests a remarkably rapid recovery, credited to both the striker’s physical resilience and the club’s advanced medical intervention.

The Target: The Intercontinental Derby

The primary objective for the Galatasaray technical crew is to have their talisman available for the "match of the season." Galatasaray is scheduled to face city rivals Fenerbahçe in the Intercontinental Derby on April 26, 2026.

Buruk’s update confirms that if Osimhen maintains his current trajectory, he will be in contention to start in the clash at RAMS Park.To ensure his safety, it is expected that Osimhen will utilize specialized medical protective gear on his arm during the initial weeks of his return.

His presence is viewed as vital; before his injury, Osimhen had netted 12 goals in 19 league appearances this season, establishing himself as the most feared forward in the division.

Buruk vs. "Internal Traitors"

While the news of Osimhen’s return was the highlight, Buruk’s press conference took a volatile turn as he addressed distractions within the club. The manager launched a scathing attack on what he termed "internal traitors" individuals allegedly leaking tactical secrets and internal team news to the media.

Despite the off-field drama, Buruk emphasized that the squad remains focused on the title. The return of Osimhen is expected to restore the "fear factor" that Buruk admitted was missing during a recent dip in form, including a narrow defeat to Trabzonspor earlier in the month.

With the Super Eagles star back on the grass, Galatasaray appears ready to push for the finish line in one of the most competitive Süper Lig seasons in recent history.