Victor Osimhen is set to return to action for Galatasaray on Wednesday evening as the Turkish champions prepare to face Atletico Madrid in a crucial UEFA Champions League league-phase fixture.
The Super Eagles striker has rejoined the Galatasaray squad after completing international duty with Nigeria at AFCON 2025, where the Super Eagles finished third. Osimhen was an unused substitute during Nigeria’s bronze-medal playoff win over Egypt before immediately travelling back to Europe.
Although the 27-year-old was briefly spotted celebrating in Lagos following AFCON, Galatasaray sources have confirmed that he returned to Istanbul earlier this week and is expected to be named in Okan Buruk’s starting XI for Wednesday’s showdown with Atletico Madrid.
Victor. Osimhen. That is all. ?? pic.twitter.com/Y8Ujn3QXTP
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) December 8, 2025
Gala’s UCL Push
Osimhen’s return could prove decisive for Galatasaray, who currently sit 18th in the Champions League league-phase table and remain firmly in the hunt for progression. With only two games remaining, Cim-Bom need points to secure their place inside the top 24 and avoid slipping out of the competition entirely.
The Nigerian forward has been one of the standout performers in this season’s Champions League when available. Osimhen scored six goals in four appearances earlier in the league phase, including a devastating hat-trick against Ajax and key goals against Bodo/Glimt and Liverpool.
His absence through injury in late November coincided with a dip in Galatasaray’s form, both domestically and in Europe. Without their talisman, the Turkish champions dropped points in the Champions League against Union Saint-Gilloise and suffered a painful Super Cup defeat to rivals Fenerbahçe.
With Atletico Madrid visiting Istanbul on Wednesday, Galatasaray will look to lean heavily on Osimhen’s physical presence, movement and finishing ability to keep their European campaign alive.
Buruk Confirms Osimhen’s Readiness
Speaking ahead of the game, Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk offered a positive update on Osimhen’s condition and mindset following his return from AFCON.
“Osimhen joined the squad yesterday and trained with us,” Buruk confirmed. “He clearly showed his desire and concentration.”
The Galatasaray boss also revealed that Ismail Jakobs is expected to arrive in Istanbul early on matchday and will be available for selection, while midfielder Sara will undergo a late fitness test.
However, Buruk confirmed that Singo will miss the Atletico clash, with Arda also ruled out through injury.
Despite those absences, Osimhen’s return provides a timely lift as Galatasaray prepare for one of their biggest games of the season against Diego Simeone’s side.
