Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool and Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray Copyright: ImagoxDavidxBlunsden
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has downplayed the severity of his recent forearm fracture, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 26-year-old sustained the injury during Galatasaray’s midweek UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Liverpool at Anfield.
Following a heavy collision with defender Ibrahima Konate, the Super Eagles star had to get immediate medical attention on the pitch and was eventually substituted at halftime. Galatasaray felt his absence eventually, as the Cimbom lost 4-0 on the night.
Subsequent examinations confirmed that Osimhen has a fractured forearm that may require surgery soon.
As a result, Galatasaray granted the striker an early leave to return to Nigeria. He is expected back in Turkey next week to begin a specialized rehabilitation program.
As it stands, Osimhen faces a minimum of one month on the sidelines. In fact, he could miss the remainder of the campaign.
This latest setback adds to a tough season for the Nigerian international, who has already battled hamstring and ankle issues earlier in the campaign.
”I’ve Gone Through Worse”- Victor Osimhen Talks About Injury
Despite his tough position, Victor Osimhen remains very confident. Speaking on his current condition, the striker referenced his 2021 head collision with Milan Škriniar — an injury that keeps him wearing a protective mask he wears to this day.
”I’m not new to this kind of thing; I have gone through much worse,” Osimhen stated. “I have metal plates in my face as a result of a previous collision. Compared to that, this current fracture is a minor case.”
While the striker is optimistic, the reality of the injury means he will be sidelined for several weeks. Even when he return, he will likely be required to play with a protective cast on his arm.
Galatasaray are currently pushing to retain their Süper Lig title and the Turkish Cup. And Osimhen’s injury means they will be forced to go through this crucial stretch of the season without their star talisman.
Nonetheless, they will be hoping that the results go their way and the other players step up.