Osimhen’s Absence Highlights Galatasaray’s Struggles in Title Race Run-In

The absence of Victor Osimhen has clearly exposed the vulnerabilities of Galatasaray as the Turkish Super Lig season approaches its decisive stage. Since the Nigerian forward suffered an arm injury in March, the league leaders have failed to extend their advantage at the top, emphasizing just how crucial he is to their title ambitions.

Osimhen has been unavailable since March 18 after sustaining the injury during a clash against Liverpool FC in the UEFA Champions League play-off encounter prior to the international break.

The 27-year-old attacker has now missed three domestic league fixtures, and Galatasaray’s performance during that period has revealed a noticeable dip. From a possible nine points, the team managed to secure only four, recording a single victory. Consequently, their lead at the summit has narrowed significantly, with Fenerbahçe S.K. closing in on 66 points, while Trabzonspor remain firmly in contention with 64 points. Galatasaray currently sit on 68 points, leaving little margin for error.

Over the course of the season, Osimhen has been absent for 11 matches across both league and European competitions. In those games, Galatasaray recorded five wins, two draws, and four losses, dropping a total of 16 points without their key striker. This pattern further underlines his influence within the squad.

His ongoing absence has raised concerns among supporters, particularly regarding the team’s ability to maintain their position at the top. Pressure has also intensified on head coach Okan Buruk, with fans eager to see the forward reintegrated into the lineup as soon as possible.

Encouragingly, Osimhen has resumed non-contact training and is edging closer to a return. He could be included in the squad for the upcoming fixture against Gençlerbirliği S.K. this weekend. Additionally, he is expected to regain full fitness ahead of the highly anticipated derby clash with Fenerbahçe next week.

Following a 1-1 home draw against Kocaelispor, Buruk shared insights into the player’s recovery progress and his plans moving forward.

According to the coach, Osimhen has resumed training and is likely to be part of the matchday squad soon. Despite recent setbacks, he maintained confidence in his team, expressing belief in their ability to secure the championship with the support of the players and fans.

Although Osimhen was present in the stands during Sunday’s match, he was absent from Monday’s training session. The team is scheduled for a rest day on Tuesday, with expectations that he will return to full training on Wednesday.

Since completing a permanent transfer worth €75 million last summer, Osimhen has delivered an impressive performance. He has scored 12 goals and registered four assists in 19 league appearances, while also contributing seven goals in the Champions League campaign.

In the club’s scoring chart, he trails slightly behind Mauro Icardi, who leads with 13 goals from 27 matches.

Should Osimhen make his return this weekend, he will rejoin Galatasaray’s title push with five crucial matches remaining, potentially providing the decisive edge needed to secure the league crown.