Victor Osimhen will miss Galatasaray’s Turkish Super Lig opening game of the season against Gaziantep on Friday.
The Nigerian striker, who recently completed a high-profile move from Napoli to the Istanbul giants, was left out of the squad due to a lack of match fitness.
Osimhen joined Galatasaray’s pre-season later than his teammates and is still working towards full sharpness ahead of a demanding campaign.
Club sources indicate the decision is precautionary, with the technical staff opting to give the 26-year-old more time to adapt and reach optimal condition before making his competitive debut.
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Galatasaray are already grappling with a striker crisis ahead of their first league fixture. Argentine forward Mauro Icardi remains sidelined as he recovers from an ACL injury, while Álvaro Morata is reportedly on the verge of an exit, leaving the team short on natural center-forwards.
Osimhen’s absence is expected to weigh heavily on Galatasaray’s attacking plans, with manager Okan Buruk potentially relying on younger options or makeshift solutions up front for the season opener.
The match against Gaziantep FK is scheduled for Friday, August 8, at NEF Stadium in Istanbul.