Galatasaray Sweat Over Victor Osimhen’s AFCON Commitment As Nigeria Duty Looms

Galatasaray Sweat Over Victor Osimhen’s AFCON Commitment As Nigeria Duty Looms

Galatasaray fans are growing increasingly concerned about Victor Osimhen’s upcoming national team duty with the Nigerian Super Eagles, as the AFCON tournament approaches. The striker’s participation has become a point of tension for the Turkish side, with head coach Okan Buruk admitting the club holds its breath every time Osimhen travels for international duty.

The 26-year-old forward, who joined Galatasaray amid high expectations, picked up an injury while representing Nigeria — adding to fears about his availability in the coming months.

AFCON To Test Galatasaray’s Squad Depth

Turkish football analyst Ali Naci Kucuk has sounded the alarm for Galatasaray supporters, reminding them that Osimhen’s AFCON call-up could sideline him during one of the most crucial stretches of the season.

“The Galatasaray players are unaware of the threat of the African Cup starting in December,” Kucuk said, as quoted by the Daily Post. “Victor Osimhen will join the Nigerian National Team camp in the second week of December.”

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to run from December 21st to January 18th, meaning Osimhen could miss up to four Süper Lig matches and potentially the Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid.

Okan Buruk Faces A Selection Headache

Coach Okan Buruk is already exploring backup plans, with reports suggesting he is trying to strengthen Mauro Icardi’s role in the team to compensate for Osimhen’s expected absence.

“If Nigeria reaches the AFCON final, Osimhen won’t return until around January 20th,” Kucuk added. “This would be a huge blow for Galatasaray, especially with big fixtures ahead.”

For now, Galatasaray will be hoping Osimhen remains fit and that Nigeria’s campaign schedule doesn’t disrupt their ambitions in both the league and Europe. But one thing is certain — the next few months will test both their patience and their depth.