Osimhen injury update: Buruk holds key talks to speed up Super Eagles star’s return

Galatasaray have been handed a major boost in their title push after head coach Okan Buruk held an important meeting with star striker Victor Osimhen to speed up his return from injury, Afrik-Foot reports.

Reports in Turkey say Buruk spoke directly to the Nigerian forward, making it clear just how important he is to the team at this crucial stage of the season.

Osimhen has been out after undergoing surgery on his arm and knee, but his absence has been strongly felt. In the five league games he missed, Galatasaray struggled, winning just once and dropping valuable points in the title race.

Buruk is said to have urged Osimhen to come back as soon as possible, telling him the team needs his presence and leadership in attack. The 27-year-old, who has been one of Galatasaray’s standout players this season, reportedly responded by showing a strong willingness to help, even if it means taking risks with his fitness.

That meeting now looks to have changed the timeline of his recovery. Osimhen is expected to be included in the squad for the upcoming league match against Gençlerbirliği, much earlier than first planned. The coaching staff are likely to start him on the bench, with the option of bringing him on if the team needs a goal.

Osimhen: A careful return with key games ahead

Despite the urgency, Galatasaray are still planning a controlled return for Osimhen. He has already stepped up his recovery in recent days, moving from individual training to working with the full squad.

Medical staff have also prepared special protective gear for him, including a bandage for his arm to reduce the risk of further injury.

If all goes well, Osimhen could play a limited role in both the league and cup matches against Gençlerbirliği, helping him regain match sharpness. The bigger target, however, is the all-important derby against Fenerbahçe later this month, where he is expected to return to the starting line-up.

His comeback cannot come soon enough for Galatasaray. The team’s attacking struggles in his absence have placed extra pressure on other forwards, including Mauro Icardi, while their lead at the top of the table has narrowed.

Osimhen’s impact this season has been clear. He has scored 19 goals and provided seven assists in 29 appearances, making him one of the most influential players in the league. His return, even if gradual, could prove decisive in the final weeks of the campaign.