GALATASARAY HIT BY INJURY BLOW AS OSIMHEN AND LEMINA BEGIN TREATMENT

Galatasaray have suffered a double injury setback after Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen and midfielder Mario Lemina were diagnosed with injuries to their right adductor muscle groups. The Turkish champions confirmed that both players underwent MRI scans and further medical examinations at Acıbadem Hospital, with the tests revealing advanced-moderate strains involving bleeding and muscle damage. Both players have now commenced treatment as the club assesses their recovery.

Osimhen sustained the injury during Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Başakşehir on Friday. The Nigerian striker had opened the scoring for his team before being forced off in the 33rd minute after experiencing discomfort in his groin area. His early withdrawal immediately raised concerns over his availability for Galatasaray’s upcoming fixtures, particularly their UEFA Champions League campaign.

Lemina was also affected during the same encounter and subsequently underwent medical checks. Galatasaray confirmed that he suffered a similar right-adductor injury and has also begun treatment. While the club initially did not give a specific recovery period, reports following the MRI examinations indicate that Osimhen could spend around three weeks on the sidelines, while Lemina may be out for approximately two to three weeks.

The timing is particularly significant for Osimhen, who remains one of Galatasaray’s most important attacking players. His injury could rule him out of some crucial matches, including the club’s Champions League meeting with Sporting Lisbon, depending on the progress of his recovery. The striker is reportedly hopeful of returning as soon as possible, but any decision on his availability will depend on medical clearance and his response to treatment.

The development will also attract attention in Nigeria, with Osimhen expected to play a key role for the Super Eagles in their upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Nigeria are scheduled to face Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in September, meaning the striker’s recovery will be closely monitored by both Galatasaray and the national team. For now, the club’s priority remains ensuring that Osimhen and Lemina recover fully before returning to competitive action.