Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has rejoined full training with Galatasaray SK ahead of their UEFA Champions League play-off second leg against Juventus FC in Turin, putting him in contention to feature after missing recent action with a minor knee complaint.
The Nigerian forward was omitted from Galatasaray’s squad for their recent 2–0 Süper Lig loss to Konyaspor as a precaution but returned to training on Monday, taking part in warm-ups, passing drills and a full practice match with teammates under head coach Okan Buruk.
Galatasaray head into the return leg holding a strong 5–2 advantage from the first encounter in Istanbul, where Osimhen provided two assists in a stunning win. The second leg is scheduled for Wednesday, 25 February 2026, with the Turkish champions seeking to secure progression to the Champions League Round of 16.
Editorial
Osimhen’s return to training comes at a crucial moment for Galatasaray. His absence from domestic action highlighted his importance the team struggled to assert itself without its talisman so seeing him back in full preparation is a timely boost ahead of a high-stakes European fixture. Despite the knee issue, club statements and the player’s involvement in team drills suggest fitness concerns have eased.
The Nigerian striker’s influence in European competition this season has been significant with multiple goal contributions in the Champions League and his availability for the Juventus rematch adds both tactical and psychological edge for the Turkish side. Juventus must overturn a three-goal deficit, so having Osimhen back could prove decisive in deciding the tie.
For Nigerian supporters, seeing one of the Super Eagles’ best players poised to feature in a big European fixture underscores the growing impact of Nigerian talent on the continental stage. If he starts or features in Turin, Osimhen could once again be at the centre of a defining moment in Galatasaray’s European campaign.
Did You Know?
- Victor Osimhen returned to full training with Galatasaray after a minor knee complaint.
- He was rested and left out of the squad for a recent league match versus Konyaspor as a precaution.
- Galatasaray won the first leg of their Champions League playoff tie vs Juventus 5–2 in Istanbul.
- The second leg is scheduled for 25 February 2026 in turin, Italy.
- Osimhen provided two assists in the first leg and has multiple goal contributions this European campaign.
