Victor Osimhen: Galatasaray star desperate to return for Intercontinental derby

Turkish football pundit Ali Naci Kucuk has revealed that star centre-forward Victor Osimhen is determined to feature for Galatasaray in the highly anticipated Intercontinental Derby against Fenerbahce, even against medical advice.

Osimhen sustained a hamstring injury on November 16th while representing Nigeria, forcing him off at half-time during the heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the African final of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoffs.

Upon his return to Istanbul, detailed medical examinations, including an MRI scan, confirmed a moderate strain with some bleeding in his left posterior muscle.

Osimhen missed Tuesday's UEFA Champions League defeat against Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, and Kucuk provided insight into the striker’s mindset for the Super Lig derby.

Speaking on the 343 Digital YouTube channel, Kucuk stated that Osimhen is insistent on playing in the crucial match against Fenerbahce.

"Osimhen says, 'We're playing our most important opponent, I want to be on the pitch.'"Kucuk further emphasized the player's fierce determination:"

"Actually, he shouldn't be playing due to medical reasons, but the player has been stubborn about being on the pitch in this match.

"He really wants to be on the pitch against Fenerbahce."

Osimhen has been enjoying an impressive Champions League campaign, currently leading the scoring charts with six goals in just three appearances, highlighting his huge importance to Galatasaray.