Victor Osimhen does not want to watch Galatasaray’s next Champions League game from the sidelines.
The Nigerian striker is hoping to recover in time for the meeting with Sporting Lisbon after suffering a groin injury during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Başakşehir.
Osimhen was withdrawn before half-time, raising immediate questions about his availability. But the striker has offered a more encouraging update.
If Galatasaray’s medical staff and coach give him the green light, Osimhen wants to play.
Osimhen eager to face Sporting Lisbon
The injury forced Osimhen out of the Başakşehir game in the 33rd minute.
Rather than risk making the problem worse, the forward accepted the decision to leave the pitch. He remains hopeful, however, that the setback will not prevent him from featuring against Sporting Lisbon.
Osimhen made his position clear after the match: he did not want to take unnecessary risks and would like to return if the coaching staff considers him fit enough to play.
That decision will ultimately depend on his recovery and the club’s medical assessment.
Osimhen had already made his mark
The timing of the injury was particularly frustrating for the striker.
Osimhen had already put Galatasaray ahead with a superb finish into the top corner. Lucas Torreira supplied the assist, allowing the Nigerian to make an early impact before discomfort brought his evening to an abrupt end.
Barış Alper Yılmaz came on as his replacement.
Galatasaray still held on for the win, but Osimhen’s fitness quickly became the bigger concern.
Galatasaray confirm adductor problem
Following medical examinations, Galatasaray reported pain and a strain involving Osimhen’s right adductor muscle group.
Treatment began immediately as the club continued assessing the extent of the problem.
Further examinations, including an MRI scan, were also planned for Osimhen and teammate Mario Lemina. The results were expected on Sunday and should provide a clearer indication of whether Osimhen can return to training and potentially face Sporting Lisbon.
Why his availability matters
Osimhen’s presence would give Galatasaray a major attacking boost for their Champions League assignment.
The club will be keen to avoid losing one of its most important forwards for an extended period, particularly with a major European fixture approaching.
For now, the situation remains straightforward:
- Osimhen has suffered a right adductor injury.
- He was substituted in the 33rd minute against Başakşehir.
- Galatasaray has begun treatment and further medical assessment.
- An MRI is expected to provide more information about the injury.
- Osimhen wants to play against Sporting Lisbon if he is cleared.
The medical results will determine the next step.
And that is the key question for Galatasaray: will Osimhen recover quickly enough to turn his desire for a Sporting Lisbon appearance into a reality?
