TFF Rejects Fenerbahçe Bid to Ban Osimhen From Derby
A late attempt to block Victor Osimhen from featuring in one of Turkey’s biggest fixtures has been dismissed, clearing the striker to play in this weekend’s high-stakes derby between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe.
Fenerbahçe had formally petitioned the Turkish Football Federation, arguing that the protective arm guard worn by Osimhen could endanger opposing players. The club cited International Football Association Board regulations in a detailed submission, seeking the forward’s disqualification from the Süper Lig clash.
The request was reviewed but ultimately rejected, allowing Osimhen to take his place in the starting line-up after internal clearance from Galatasaray’s technical crew led by head coach Okan Buruk.
The 25-year-old Nigerian striker is returning from a recent arm injury sustained during Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League round of 16 encounter against Liverpool FC. He subsequently underwent surgery and has been easing back into competitive action.
His first appearance since the procedure came in the Turkish Cup fixture against Gençlerbirliği, where he played 17 minutes wearing a protective bandage. Reports in Turkish media indicated that Osimhen experienced no discomfort during that outing and later communicated his readiness to the coaching staff.
Buruk has now opted to start the striker in the crucial Week 31 fixture at Rams Park, a decision that underlines his importance to Galatasaray’s title ambitions. Argentine forward Mauro Icardi is expected to begin on the bench, while the attacking line will include Barış Alper, Leroy Sané, and Dries Mertens’ replacement, Sara.
Osimhen’s form this season has been a defining factor in Galatasaray’s campaign. Across all competitions, he has recorded 19 goals and seven assists in 30 appearances, placing him among the club’s most influential performers.
The derby carries significant weight in the Turkish title race, with both sides competing closely at the top of the table. A win for either team could shift momentum decisively as the season approaches its final stretch.
While Fenerbahçe’s challenge has added a layer of controversy ahead of the fixture, the federation’s ruling ensures that the outcome will be decided on the pitch rather than through administrative intervention.