Jordan Torunarigha nears Hamburg SV return after Illness

Hamburger SV defender Jordan Torunarigha missed Wednesday’s training session because of illness, creating a short-term concern ahead of the club’s friendly against FC Copenhagen.

The 29-year-old centre-back had been pencilled in to start in HSV’s back three on Sunday.

His availability for that match remains uncertain, as the club has not given a firm timeline for his recovery. However, the latest update is encouraging: Torunarigha was already back in the gym on Thursday, indicating that his absence is unlikely to become a prolonged problem.

If he does not recover in time to face Copenhagen, academy player Shafiq Nandja could provide an alternative in defence. The friendly offers Hamburg an opportunity to test options during the international break, but the bigger priority is ensuring Torunarigha is fully fit for the Bundesliga’s return.

HSV do not resume league action until a week after the Copenhagen game, giving the defender valuable additional time to recover. That schedule reduces the risk of him missing a competitive fixture and should allow the medical staff to manage his return carefully.

Torunarigha has made four appearances this season and remains an important defensive option. Hamburg will hope his return to gym work is followed quickly by a full training comeback.