Osimhen Declares Himself Ready For Fierce Fenerbahçe Derby Clash

Nigerian striker, Victor Osimhen has told Galatasaray he is willing to push himself back into action as the Turkish champions prepare for a high-stakes Super Lig derby against long-time rivals Fenerbahçe at 6 p.m. later today, December 1.

Osimhen has been sidelined for the past two matches after suffering a hamstring injury while on international duty. He picked up the knock during Nigeria’s defeat to DR Congo in the final of the 2026 World Cup African play-off, and Galatasaray later confirmed he had started treatment following medical scans.

Although the club avoided giving a definite return date, reports in Turkey suggest Osimhen has been edging closer to full fitness, with hopes raised that he may feature in tonight’s derby. His absence was felt in the league meeting with Genclerbirligi and during the Champions League loss at home to USG.

Turkish journalist Mehmet Özcan reported that Osimhen has already told teammates he is prepared to take a risk if it means helping the side in one of the country’s biggest fixtures.

In comments shared by Forza Cimbom, the Nigerian striker said, “I know the importance of the Fenerbahçe derby and its meaning for the fans. I experienced this excitement last season. This club made this investment in me for such big matches. If necessary, I will take risks and go out on the field to give 100 per cent.”

Galatasaray go into the tie with a narrow one-point lead over Fenerbahçe at the top of the Super Lig. The meeting is traditionally tense, and Turkish authorities are deploying around 16,000 security personnel for crowd control.

Osimhen’s history in this rivalry is notable. During his loan spell last season, he scored twice in a 2-1 cup win over Fenerbahçe and set up a goal in Galatasaray’s 3-1 league victory last September.

Now permanently signed after a prolific loan campaign in which he hit 37 goals in 41 games, he has so far managed three goals in nine league appearances this term and nine in 12 across all competitions.