Galatasaray boost as Victor Osimhen returns ahead Of European test

Victor Osimhen has been declared fit for Galatasaray’s Champions League play-off second leg against Juventus, ending doubts over his availability.

The Nigerian striker had been left out of the matchday squad in the club’s most recent Süper Lig fixture against Konyaspor after suffering a knee injury.

His absence raised concerns ahead of Wednesday’s European trip to Turin, where Galatasaray will defend a 5-2 advantage from the first leg.

However, head coach Okan Buruk confirmed the forward’s readiness to return. According to Complete Sports, Buruk reassured supporters that the striker had resumed full training in the build-up to the decisive encounter.

“Osimhen has trained with us for the last two days. He is ready to play,” Buruk told the media.

The announcement provides a significant boost to the Turkish champions as they seek to protect their commanding lead on Italian soil.

Although Osimhen did not find the net in the first leg, his influence on the outcome was widely recognised.

The Super Eagles forward contributed two assists and played a central role in Galatasaray’s attacking structure.

Buruk was keen to underline that the striker’s importance extends beyond goal-scoring statistics. His movement, link-up play and work rate were highlighted as key components in the team’s performance during the first meeting.

“Osimhen is invaluable to us. It’s important that he doesn’t just play as a goalscorer, but as a team player. He always lifts the team,” the coach explained.

He further pointed to the forward’s involvement in three of the goals scored while he was on the pitch, placing his contribution on a par with that of Gabriel Sara, who was named man of the match, and Barış Alper Yılmaz.

With his fitness confirmed, attention now turns to whether Osimhen can again influence proceedings as Galatasaray attempt to secure their place in the next stage of the competition.