Victor Osimhen injury update: Galatasaray make major decision ahead of Barcelona clash

Victor Osimhen is unlikely to play for Galatasaray against Trabzonspor despite having a chance of recovering in time, Soccernet.ng reports.

This development comes as the club remains unwilling to risk the Super Eagles striker as he continues his recovery from a right adductor injury.

Turkish outlet Fanatik reports that Osimhen could technically be available for the September 19 trip to Trabzon, but Galatasaray's coaching staff have no plans to take that risk. They would rather give the 27-year-old more time to regain full fitness than bring him back early and risk another injury.

Osimhen suffered the problem during Galatasaray's 3-2 win away to İstanbul Başakşehir on September 4. He scored in the 16th minute but left the pitch in the 33rd minute after suffering pain in his right groin area.

Galatasaray later confirmed that medical examinations found a moderate-to-advanced strain in his right upper adductor, with bleeding in the injured area. The problem ruled him out of the Champions League opener against Sporting CP and has also put his availability for the early September league fixtures in doubt.

Barcelona becomes Osimhen's next major target

Fanatik says Galatasaray are likely to wait until after the international break before considering Osimhen for a return. The club's priority is to make sure the injury has healed properly and reduce the chance of a recurrence.

That approach puts the Champions League meeting with Barcelona at the centre of Osimhen's recovery plan. Galatasaray are scheduled to host the Spanish giants at RAMS Park on October 13, giving the striker several weeks to complete his rehabilitation before the match.

Osimhen had started the new campaign in strong form before the injury. He scored six goals and provided two assists in his first four appearances for Galatasaray, including the goal against Başakşehir that was followed by his early departure.

His absence has already affected Galatasaray's European campaign. He missed the Champions League opener against Sporting CP, which Galatasaray lost 3-1. The club now appears ready to sacrifice his availability for Trabzonspor rather than risk a longer spell on the sidelines.

A successful recovery would give Osimhen a chance to return for one of the most important games of Galatasaray's European campaign. The former Napoli striker is, however, ruled out of Nigeria's two Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau later this month.