Victor Osimhen has been cleared to feature in this weekend's highly anticipated Istanbul derby after Fenerbahce's attempt to have him disqualified was rejected. The Turkish club had formally petitioned the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) to bar the Galatasaray striker from the match, claiming that the protective arm guard he wears poses a danger to opposing players.
Fenerbahce's Disqualification Bid
Fenerbahce submitted a detailed report to the TFF, citing IFAB regulations to support their case that Osimhen's arm guard could cause injury to other players. However, the federation dismissed the application, allowing the Nigerian international to participate in the critical Süper Lig clash.
Osimhen's Comeback
The 26-year-old forward recently returned from an arm injury sustained during Galatasaray's Champions League round of 16 match against Liverpool. He underwent surgery and made his comeback in the Turkish Cup against Gençlerbirliği, playing 17 minutes with a protective bandage. Turkish media reports indicate that Osimhen felt no pain during his return and has communicated his full readiness to the technical committee.
Derby Lineup and Implications
Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk has decided to include Osimhen in the starting XI for the Week 31 fixture at Rams Park. Mauro Icardi is expected to start on the bench, while the offensive line will also feature Barış Alper, Sane, and Sara. Osimhen has been in impressive form this season, scoring 19 goals and providing seven assists in 30 appearances across all competitions. His availability is a significant boost for Galatasaray as they face their arch-rivals in a match that could prove decisive in the championship race.
The derby is one of the most important fixtures of the season, with the title race hanging in the balance. The outcome could throw the fight for the championship wide open.
