Victor Osimhen is planning a bold move to bring Nigerian football culture to one of Turkey’s biggest matches, while also racing against time to be fit for it, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles striker is reportedly organising a special trip for a group of Nigerian media personalities and influencers to attend Galatasaray’s huge Intercontinental Derby against Fenerbahçe on April 26, 2026. At the same time, he is working through an injury recovery programme with the aim of featuring in what could be a title-deciding match.
Osimhen’s idea is simple but striking. He wants to fly out selected Nigerian media figures to Istanbul for a ‘full VIP experience' around the derby.
The trip is expected to be fully funded by the striker himself, covering flights, luxury accommodation and match tickets.
Some well-known social media personalities are already being linked to the plan. Influencers _AsiwajuLerry and BuchiLaba have been tagged by Osimhen on social media, pointing to their involvement in the trip.
This is not the first time Osimhen has done something like this. He has previously flown members of his inner circle to celebrate key moments in his career. During Galatasaray’s 2025 title celebrations, guests such as Tunde Ednut and Verydarkman were present.
The derby itself carries huge importance. Galatasaray are currently leading the Turkish Süper Lig and could move closer to another league title with a positive result. Osimhen has been central to that push, despite missing games through injury.
So far this season, he has scored 12 goals in 19 league matches, with four assists. In the UEFA Champions League, he has added seven goals and three assists in 10 appearances. His numbers show just how important he is to the team.
This planned ‘Nigerian media invasion' points to the strong connection he has built between Turkish football and fans back home.
Osimhen: Race against time for Fenerbahçe derby return
While organising off-field plans, Osimhen is also focused on being ready for the game itself.
The striker is recovering from a fractured right forearm suffered during a Champions League match against Liverpool in mid-March. He underwent a successful three-hour surgery at Maslak Acıbadem Hospital, and his recovery has moved faster than expected.
As of April 2, 2026, he has entered a new phase of rehabilitation. He has started light indoor gym work and outdoor drills, which is a key step towards full fitness.
Doctors have also approved a ‘protective gear' plan. This means Osimhen could return to action before the injury is completely healed by wearing a specialised arm splint.
He has set his own recovery timeline at five to six weeks, which fits closely with the April 26 derby date. However, he is expected to miss league matches against Trabzonspor, Göztepe and Kocaelispor, as well as a Turkish Cup quarter-final.
There is growing belief inside the club that he will make it back in time. Turkish journalist Ali Naci Küçük said Osimhen ‘will be on the field for the Fenerbahçe derby unless something negative happens'.
Osimhen himself has shown strong confidence about his return. In a message to the club president, he reportedly said: ‘Don't worry, President. I will be on the field, and we will be champions'.
If he does return in time, it would be a major boost for Galatasaray in what could be the defining game of their season.
