Victor Osimhen’s new gear: Fenerbahçe move to disqualify striker from Istanbul derby

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen risks missing the Turkish derby between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe this Sunday, as the latter have made a strategic move to ensure the striker is sidelined, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Osimhen has been Galatasaray’s standout performer this season, tallying an impressive 19 goals and seven assists in 30 appearances for the Cimbom.

​His goal involvement likely would have been even higher if not for various injury setbacks.

His most recent injury was a forearm fracture sustained during a UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Liverpool on March 18.

​Following surgery, Osimhen made his comeback just yesterday in Galatasaray’s Turkish Cup fixture against Gençlerbirliği.

While the procedure helped the injury heal faster, his return remains somewhat rushed—a calculated risk given that the season has reached its most crucial stage.

​To prevent a recurrence of the injury, the 27-year-old marksman must wear protective gear on his arm.

He debuted this gear against Gençlerbirliği on Wednesday, but his ability to use it in the upcoming clash against bitter rivals Fenerbahçe is now in question.

​Fenerbahçe Move to Disqualify Victor Osimhen from Istanbul Derby

​Next up for Galatasaray is the Turkish derby this weekend. Often regarded as the biggest game of the season, this fixture features the country’s two most successful clubs in terms of both quality and historical achievements.

​The rivalry is notoriously controversial, frequently marred by fan clashes and off-pitch maneuvering. Ahead of the showdown at Rams Park, Fenerbahçe has made a tactical play to get Osimhen disqualified from the match.

​According to Turkish outlet NTV, Fenerbahçe has submitted a detailed report to the Turkish Football Federation (TFF). They claim that Osimhen’s new protective gear poses a physical injury risk to other players.

​The Fenerbahçe medical team has reportedly drafted a technical report on the gear’s material, intending to support their argument using IFAB (International Football Association Board) regulations.

​If the TFF accepts Fenerbahçe’s complaint, Osimhen will be prohibited from wearing the gear. Consequently, he would likely be unable to play, as appearing without protection would put him at high risk of re-injuring his arm.

​This is not the first time the Yellow Canaries have employed such tactics. When Osimhen first arrived in Turkey, they filed a similar complaint regarding his signature face mask, forcing Galatasaray to provide medical proof of its necessity.

The Cimbom will be hopeful that the TFF will rule in their favor and dismiss Fenerbahçe’s latest grievance.