Victor Osimhen Injury Update: Galatasaray Sweat on Star Striker Ahead of Juventus Rematch

 

Galatasaray are reportedly "sweating" on the fitness of their talismanic striker, Victor Osimhen, as they prepare for a high-stakes UEFA Champions League knockout play-off second leg against Juventus. The Nigerian international was a notable absentee during Galatasaray's recent 2-0 Turkish Super Lig defeat to Konyaspor, a loss that underscored just how vital the 27-year-old is to Okan Buruk’s tactical setup. After reporting persistent pain in his right knee, the club’s medical staff opted to rest the forward as a "precautionary measure," fueling intense speculation about his availability for the decisive trip to Turin on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

​The Current Fitness Status of Victor Osimhen

​According to the latest reports from Istanbul, Osimhen spent the better part of Sunday undergoing specialized training in the gym rather than joining the full squad on the pitch. While the sight of a star player training individually often signals a race against time, sources close to the club, including Turkish journalist Nevzat Dindar, have offered a glimmer of hope. It is understood that while the knee strain is being taken seriously, the injury is not considered catastrophic. The decision to sideline him against Konyaspor was a calculated risk, prioritizing his presence for the European stage over domestic duties.

​Osimhen is expected to travel with the team to Italy, a country where he is already a household name following his legendary stint with Napoli. His familiarity with Italian defenses, specifically the backline of the Old Lady, makes his potential presence a psychological boost for the Turkish giants and a significant headache for Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti.

​Why Osimhen is the Key to Galatasaray’s Progression

​The first leg at RAMS Park was nothing short of a tactical masterclass by Galatasaray, ending in a dominant 5-2 victory. Although Osimhen did not find the back of the net himself, his fingerprints were all over the result. He registered two crucial assists, setting up Noah Lang and Sacha Boey, and his constant movement stretched the Juventus defense to its breaking point. This season, Osimhen has been in scintillating form in the Champions League, tallying six goals and two assists in just seven appearances.

​Juventus legend and former manager Fabio Capello recently noted that the only way for the Bianconeri to stop the Nigerian is through the return of Gleison Bremer, highlighting the respect Osimhen commands across the continent. Without him, Galatasaray lacks the "verticality" and physical presence required to hold the ball up under pressure—a trait they will desperately need while defending a three-goal lead in a hostile Allianz Stadium.

​Tactical Implications: What Happens if Osimhen Misses Out?

​If the medical team fails to clear Osimhen for a starting role, Okan Buruk faces a significant dilemma. Mauro Icardi is also reportedly nursing a back issue, leaving the Turkish champions potentially thin in the final third. A 5-2 lead is substantial, but as Juventus has shown historically, they are capable of "remontadas" in Turin. Without Osimhen’s ability to counter-attack at pace, Galatasaray risk being pinned back into their own half for 90 minutes.

​However, the latest "good news" circulating in the Turkish media suggests that the striker has responded well to gym sessions and physiotherapeutic intervention. The consensus remains that unless he suffers a setback during the final training session in Italy, Victor Osimhen will lead the line. For fans and stakeholders, his recovery isn't just about a single player; it's about the club's ambition to reach the Round of 16 and prove that their first-leg triumph was no fluke.