Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk has provided an update on the fitness of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen following the team’s 3-1 victory over Göztepe in a rescheduled Super Lig fixture on Wednesday.

Speaking in a post-match press conference after the win, Buruk addressed questions regarding Osimhen’s return to action after a spell on the sidelines. 

Providing clarity on the player’s current condition, Buruk said, as quoted by Liderhaber, “Osimhen has started running. It will be difficult for him to return this weekend, but I think he could be in the squad for the Gençlerbirliği match next week, if conditions permit.”

The Galatasaray manager also indicated that the club may take a cautious approach with the striker’s recovery timeline.

“We might even skip him and use him in the Fenerbahçe match. We need to see how things go,” he added.

The Super Eagles forward sustained the injury during the Champions League fixture against Liverpool, which ruled him out of recent matches.

Following the setback, the striker underwent a successful surgical procedure.

There has since been positive progress in his recovery, with the player now taking steps to regain match fitness.

His return to running marks a significant stage in the rehabilitation process as he works towards a full return to competitive action.

The focus now remains on Osimhen’s recovery in the coming days, as the club assesses his readiness ahead of upcoming fixtures, including the potential return against Gençlerbirliği or a later involvement in the high-profile clash with Fenerbahçe.

Wale Adejumo