Victor Osimhen: Fresh injury details emerge ahead of Super Eagles media sessions

Victor Osimhen's knee injury continues to raise concerns in Nigeria and Turkey, with fresh information about his operation providing a clearer picture of the possible recovery period.

Nigerian journalists provide fresh Osimhen injury details

Multiple Nigerian journalists in Uyo covering the Super Eagles' preparations for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania spoke to Foot Africa on condition of anonymity because of the matter's sensitivity.

They disclosed that doctors removed a loose fragment from Victor Osimhen's left knee during his successful operation on November 7, 2026.

According to the journalists, the striker's condition should become clearer within 10-14 days, while the detached fragment could mean he needs more than a month to return to action.

Osimhen's return date remains uncertain

Osimhen underwent surgery at Maslak Acıbadem Hospital, with Galatasaray club doctor Yener İnce performing the procedure.

Initial assessments suggested that the forward could be out for approximately three to four weeks. Turkish journalist Celik Cagatay had earlier reported a shorter recovery period of two to three weeks.

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According to Cagatay, Osimhen was expected to miss Galatasaray's match against Samsunspor after the international break but could return for their UEFA Champions League meeting with Aston Villa.

However, Galatasaray have not announced an official return date, and the latest five-week estimate remains subject to his recovery.

Buruk refuses to set return date

Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has cautioned against putting a definitive date on the striker's comeback.

“There’s no definite timeline for Osimhen, only estimated ones. We need to monitor how everything progresses day by day.

“The international break has at least been a benefit for us. After that, we’ll continue to monitor and assess his progress day by day.

“Hopefully, he’ll be back as soon as possible, but what’s most important isn’t how soon he returns, but that he returns in the best possible health and as strong as possible.

“There may be situations where we won’t risk him for a week, three days or five days. That’s why we need to assess his condition day by day after the international break. These two weeks will be important for us.”

Osimhen's absence set to dominate Super Eagles media sessions

Osimhen has already been ruled out of Nigeria's November double-header against Tanzania in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers, leaving coach Eric Chelle without one of his most important attacking options.

The striker's absence is expected to be a major talking point when the Super Eagles players meet the media on Wednesday, November 11, at their Four Points by Sheraton Hotel base in Ikot Ekpene.

Chelle is scheduled to address journalists on Thursday, November 12, at the pre-match press conference in Uyo. Questions about Osimhen's injury, his omission from the squad and Nigeria's plans without him are likely to feature prominently.

The Super Eagles host Tanzania in the first leg on Friday, November 13, before travelling for the return fixture on November 17.

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