By George Omagbemi Sylvester
Victor Osimhen has returned to action for Galatasaray after being cleared amid safety-related objections raised by Fenerbahçe ahead of the highly anticipated Istanbul derby.
On 25 April 2026, reports confirmed that Fenerbahçe had attempted to challenge the striker’s participation over concerns linked to the protective gear he wears following a recent arm injury.
The club argued that the equipment could pose a risk in physical duels, prompting formal complaints to Turkish football authorities.
However, football regulators and competition officials allowed Osimhen to continue playing, effectively dismissing the objections.
The Nigerian forward, who recently recovered from injury, has since been declared fit and is expected to lead Galatasaray’s attack in the derby.
The situation has added further intensity to one of Europe’s most heated rivalries, with both clubs already locked in a tight title race.
Galatasaray view Osimhen as central to their championship push, while Fenerbahçe’s protests have been interpreted by some analysts as psychological gamesmanship ahead of the clash.
Osimhen’s return strengthens Galatasaray’s attacking options at a critical stage of the season, while also escalating tensions in a fixture already known for its high emotional and competitive stakes.
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