Football fans will miss two of Nigeria’s brightest stars this weekend, as both Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze have been ruled out of their respective league fixtures.
While the news comes as a blow to their clubs, both players are expected to make quick recoveries.
Precautionary Rest for Osimhen in Turkey
Turkish leaders Galatasaray have opted to play it safe with their star striker. Osimhen will not travel for the Super Lig match against Konyaspor this Saturday.
The decision follows his brilliant performance against Juventus, where he set up two goals in a 5-2 win.
The club confirmed the news via an official statement on their website:
“Victor Osimhen, who is experiencing pain in his right knee, was left out of the squad for the Tümosan Konyaspor match as a precautionary measure.”
In his absence, former Inter Milan forward Mauro Icardi will likely lead the line.
Osimhen has been in fine form this season, netting nine goals and contributing three assists in 16 league games.
The medical team expects him back for the crucial Champions League return leg against Juventus next Wednesday.
Chukwueze Out of Fulham’s Trip to Sunderland
Over in England, Fulham winger Samuel Chukwueze is also facing a brief spell on the sidelines.
The 26-year-old, currently on loan from AC Milan, picked up a minor calf problem during a recent match against Manchester City.
Manager Marco Silva provided an update on the situation, explaining that while the injury isn’t severe, Sunday’s game comes too soon.
“The only player who is going to be out of the game is Chukwueze. After City he felt something in his calf, nothing serious, but even today in the morning he was involved in some drills.”
Silva remains confident that the Super Eagles star will return for the upcoming London derby against Tottenham Hotspur.
”Probably in the first section of next week, he is going to be completely ready to work with the team, and he is going to be back for the next game.”
Since joining the Cottagers, Chukwueze has been a creative spark, providing four assists and scoring three goals in 13 appearances.
Both he and Victor Osimhen remain vital pieces of their teams’ tactical puzzles as the season enters a critical phase.