Osimhen’s Galatasaray Return Could Take Five Weeks, Küçük Warns

Turkish sports journalist Ali Naci Küçük has raised concerns over Victor Osimhen’s recovery from a knee injury, warning that the Nigerian striker’s return to action for Galatasaray could take longer than initially anticipated.

Osimhen sustained the injury during Galatasaray’s 2-0 victory over Stuttgart in the UEFA Champions League last week and subsequently underwent successful surgery.

Küçük disclosed that a loose fragment in the striker’s knee could extend his recovery period to approximately five weeks, contrary to earlier expectations of a shorter absence.

He said the development would be disappointing for Galatasaray supporters, adding that the player’s return timeline remained uncertain.

According to the journalist, Osimhen underwent the procedure under the supervision of Galatasaray medical staff and was discharged from hospital after the operation.

He explained that the 27-year-old requested to remain in hospital so that his treatment could begin immediately, rather than returning home.

Küçük added that further assessments would provide a clearer picture of the striker’s recovery, with the possibility of an extended absence remaining a concern.

If the five-week estimate holds, Osimhen could miss Galatasaray’s Turkish Super Lig encounter against Samsunspor, their Champions League meeting with Aston Villa and the Istanbul derby against Beşiktaş.

The Nigerian international is also expected to miss the Super Eagles’ November Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Tanzania.

Galatasaray have confirmed that the surgery was successful but have not announced an official date for his return, saying his condition would be monitored through daily medical assessments.

The uncertainty comes as the Turkish champions prepare for a demanding run of domestic and European fixtures without one of their key attacking players.