Victor Osimhen expected to return in October following groin injury

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is expected to return to competitive action in October following a groin injury sustained while playing for Galatasaray. The injury, identified as a strain to the right adductor muscle group, occurred during a match against İstanbul Başakşehir where Osimhen was forced off in the 33rd minute.

Osimhen's recovery timeline suggests a potential return for Galatasaray’s Turkish Cup fixture against Kasımpaşa on October 11, followed by a Champions League match against Barcelona on October 13. However, the injury will likely prevent him from participating in Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau later this month.

In addition to Osimhen, there are concerns regarding the availability of fellow Nigerian forward Paul Onuachu, who also faced injury concerns after scoring twice for Trabzonspor. Meanwhile, George Ilenikhena received high praise for a two-goal performance for Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League.