Date set for Victor Osimhen’s second Galatasaray debut

Nigerian international Victor Osimhen recently secured a permanent move from Napoli to join Turkish Super Lig giants Galatasaray…

Super Eagles talisman Victor Osimhen will make his much-anticipated second debut for Galatasaray this Friday when the Turkish champions face Karagümrük in the second week of the Süper Lig, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigerian striker, who sealed a permanent €75 million move from Napoli this summer—a record-breaking transfer in Turkish football—spent the latter half of last season on loan at Galatasaray, firing the club to a league and cup double.

When will Osimhen debut for Galatasaray?

Per Telgraf, head coach Okan Buruk has confirmed plans to ease the 26-year-old back into action. Further reports in Turkey indicate that Barış Alper Yılmaz will start up front, with Osimhen expected to come on in the second half to build match sharpness.

The Super Eagles forward is tipped to be fully fit and ready to reclaim his starting spot when Galatasaray travel to Kayserispor later this month.

Mutiu Adepoju on Osimhen

Osimhen’s return has generated huge excitement among Galatasaray fans, with former Real Madrid midfielder Mutiu Adepoju praising the move earlier this month:

“Osimhen is already well loved at Galatasaray. He won the league and cup with them last season, so he’s familiar with the environment. That continuity matters.”

“He’s a strong character and a proven goalscorer. Galatasaray have got a striker who can help them defend their title and make an impact in the Champions League.”

“I’m happy for him and I hope this next chapter goes well for both him and the club,

“I was happy when I saw the news about his move. If you remember, I said I wanted him to go where he would be happy. Judging from his comments when he arrived in Turkey, I think he is.”

The 26-year-old’s arrival on a permanent basis also came despite lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia, with the forward opting to remain in Europe and spearhead Galatasaray’s push for another domestic title and a strong run in the UEFA Champions League.

What to expect

This season, Osimhen is expected to be the focal point of Galatasaray's attack as he looks to build on his successful loan spell in Turkey.

The Super Eagles striker is poised to deliver consistent goals in the Süper Lig while also providing the energy needed for a deep Champions League run.

His familiarity with the team’s system and the confidence of already winning a domestic double will allow him to hit the ground running, no doubt. And if he stays injury-free, Osimhen could be on course to score more than he did last season.