Speaking on SkySpor’s YouTube channel, Kucuk outlined how the Nigeria striker made his intentions clear the moment he arrived back in Turkey following international duty.
Kucuk explained that Osimhen expressed his determination as soon as he touched down.
“As soon as Victor Osimhen landed in Istanbul, he said, ‘I want to play in the derby!’ After the MRI, he said, ‘Do whatever you can, I'm here to make Galatasaray even more successful. I want to be on the pitch in the most important match,” he said, as quoted by habersarikirmizi.
However, despite Osimhen’s insistence, his injury presents significant challenges.
The forward picked up a hamstring problem during Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Sunday night.
Upon returning to Istanbul, he underwent a full medical examination, including an MRI scan, to determine the severity of the injury.
According to Kucuk, Galatasaray’s coaching and medical teams are now evaluating the possibility of taking a calculated risk regarding the striker’s involvement.
He stated, “At this point, the Galatasaray technical staff and medical board are taking a risk and aiming to include Osimhen in the extended squad for the Fenerbahçe derby. Osimhen is unlikely to play in the Gençlerbirliği and USG matches."
Kucuk further highlighted Osimhen's exceptional mentality, noting that his determination could influence the club's approach to his treatment.
"He wouldn't normally be ready for the Fenerbahce derby, but we're talking about a very different player.
"Due to Osimhen's desire and insistence on this point, he will be given intensive treatment.
"We want him to be on the bench at least for the derby and then be able to join the game and contribute to the team,” he said.
As Galatasaray prepares for one of the most important fixtures of their season, the club remains hopeful that Osimhen’s accelerated treatment program may allow him to take part—at least from the bench—in the high-pressure derby game.
Wale Adejumo
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