Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is edging closer to a return to full fitness, with Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk revealing the latest on his recovery.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Buruk confirmed that the Nigerian forward has rejoined training but is still battling slight discomfort.
“He joined part of the training session and is dealing with some minor pain. If he can manage it, we are hopeful he’ll be ready for our next game,” Buruk told reporters.
The Galatasaray boss further expressed optimism that Osimhen will be fit in time for the highly anticipated Champions League clash against Liverpool, even if he is eased back in the Turkish Super Lig this weekend against Alanyaspor.
According to reports from Sporx, the club may avoid rushing the 25-year-old into domestic action, prioritizing his availability for the European night against the Premier League giants.
Osimhen, who sealed a permanent move to Galatasaray this summer after a record-breaking loan spell from Napoli, has struggled with fitness at the start of the season. He has only started two of the opening six league games, but despite limited minutes, he has already scored two goals in three appearances a reminder of his lethal finishing ability.
Former Besiktas star Sinan Engin also weighed in, insisting Osimhen’s competitive spirit will see him feature against Liverpool regardless of his condition.
“Even if he had a broken leg, Osimhen would still push to play against Liverpool. He’s not the type to pick and choose games. He’ll give 100 percent when Liverpool comes,” Engin said.