Osimhen Galatasaray return is expected in October after the Nigerian striker suffered a right adductor injury against Başakşehir

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is expected to return for Galatasaray’s Turkish Cup meeting with Kasımpaşa and UEFA Champions League clash with Barcelona in October 2026, after a right adductor injury forced the 27-year-old forward out of action.

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Osimhen suffered the injury during Galatasaray’s 3-2 away victory over İstanbul Başakşehir on Friday, September 4, 2026. The Nigerian had opened the scoring with a powerful finish before being substituted in the 33rd minute.

Galatasaray subsequently confirmed that medical examinations had detected an advanced-moderate strain involving bleeding in Osimhen’s right adductor muscle group. The club said his treatment had begun. Galatasaray+1

The injury is expected to keep Osimhen out for roughly two to three weeks, according to reports tracking his recovery. That would rule him out of Wednesday’s Champions League opener against Sporting CP, as well as several domestic fixtures during his rehabilitation. RotoWire

The timing is an unwelcome setback for Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk, with Osimhen having made a flying start to the new campaign.

The striker has scored six goals and supplied two assists in four appearances for the Turkish champions, establishing himself as a decisive figure in the side’s attack.

Osimhen’s absence will also be closely monitored in Nigeria, with the Super Eagles preparing for their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures.

Galatasaray’s medical update provided no specific return date, meaning Osimhen’s rehabilitation will ultimately determine when he can resume competitive football. The club said treatment for the injury would continue under its medical team. Anadolu Agency

The early indication, however, is encouraging for Galatasaray ahead of an important October.

UEFA lists Galatasaray’s Champions League meeting with Barcelona for October 13, when the Turkish side will host the Spanish giants. UEFA.com+1

That fixture could provide Osimhen with a high-profile target for his comeback if his recovery progresses as expected.

The Nigerian is also expected to be available for Galatasaray’s Turkish Cup encounter with Kasımpaşa on October 11, although his involvement will depend on his fitness and the club’s assessment of his readiness.

For now, Galatasaray will have to manage without their leading attacking threat during a demanding stretch of the season.

The setback is particularly frustrating given Osimhen’s electric start. His goals have quickly made him central to Galatasaray’s ambitions, while his return against Barcelona could offer a compelling test of whether he can immediately rediscover the sharpness that marked the opening weeks of his campaign.

For Nigeria, the priority will be similar: ensuring the Super Eagles striker makes a full recovery rather than rushing him back and risking a recurrence.

Also read: 10 Champions League Matches to Watch From Tuesday

If his rehabilitation remains on schedule, Osimhen could return to competitive action in October with two significant fixtures awaiting him, beginning with Kasımpaşa before the much-anticipated Champions League encounter with Barcelona.