Galatasaray and Nigerian supporters are cautiously optimistic about an earlier-than-expected, Last Tuesday, the 27-year-old underwent a three-hour procedure at Istanbul’s Maslak Acıbadem Hospital.
Following scans confirming the fracture sustained during a UEFA Champions League round of 16 match against Liverpool at Anfield, where Osimhen collided mid-air with defender Ibrahima Konaté, club physician Op. Dr. Yener İnce headed the surgical team. He continued to play until halfway before being replaced, displaying his usual toughness.
Osimhen personally asked for a longer stay in order to guarantee more careful monitoring and provide himself with the ideal circumstances for a speedy recovery, even though it was originally anticipated that he would be released the day following surgery. During that time, a security guard was stationed outside his room, and even close family members were prohibited from entering because his recovery was the top priority.
Osimhen told club officials, according to Turkish journalist Haluk Yürekli, “I don’t want to be discharged; I want my care to continue here so I can return sooner.”
The club has welcomed the decision, seeing it as more evidence of the striker’s dedication and professionalism.
More recent reports indicate a recovery window of four to six weeks, which raises optimism that he could make an appearance sooner than expected. Initial assessments had indicated a six-to eight-week absence. Osimhen has previously stated that he might be fit in four weeks, with an extra two weeks required to restore match sharpness.
His main goal is to return for the April 26 Istanbul derby against arch rivals Fenerbahçe. According to certain rumors, if his recuperation goes well, he might even be prepared to start that match. When he returns, it is anticipated that he will wear a protective splint on his wounded arm.
But the club is supposed to be cautious and won’t rush him back and run the risk of a recurrence.
For Galatasaray’s chances of winning the championship, timing is crucial. With 64 points, four more than second-place Fenerbahçe, the Turkish powerhouses are now leading the Super Lig and have a match in hand.
Osimhen had been in excellent form prior to the injury, making 29 appearances in all competitions with 19 goals and seven assists, including standout performances in Europe. Since then, Konaté has apologized for the collision that resulted in the setback.