Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has made a direct appeal to injured star striker Victor Osimhen, asking the Nigerian forward to prioritize the team’s urgent needs over his complete recovery.
According to Turkish journalist Ali Naci Küçük, Buruk told Osimhen: "I know you're not completely healed, but we need you. Don't leave us alone in these important weeks."
Osimhen, 27, suffered a forearm fracture during Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League clash with Liverpool last month. While he has yet to fully recover, Buruk’s plea emphasizes the pressure on the reigning Süper Lig champions as they navigate a decisive stretch of the season.
The Nigerian international has already missed several matches, during which Galatasaray’s attacking fluidity has suffered, resulting in dropped points in the title race. Buruk has publicly reported that Osimhen has resumed running and could be available for the upcoming Süper Lig fixture against Gençlerbirliği on April 18.
Galatasaray currently sit near the top of the league standings, with a high-stakes derby against arch-rivals Fenerbahçe looming at the end of April.