Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen could be forced to play without his signature protective face mask in this weekend’s highly anticipated Turkish Super Lig derby between Galatasaray and fierce rivals Fenerbahçe, MySportDab reports.
The match is expected to be a pivotal moment in the season, as both teams battle for early dominance in Turkey’s biggest football rivalry.
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray with high expectations, has worn the protective mask since suffering a serious facial injury during his time at Napoli.
The injury occurred after a collision with Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar, requiring surgery and the insertion of six plates and 18 screws into his face. Since then, the mask has been a constant feature, providing him safety as he continues his prolific career.
However, controversy has arisen in Turkey, with reports suggesting that Fenerbahçe fans are pressuring the Turkish Football Federation to ban the mask, claiming it poses a potential risk to opponents.
This follows Galatasaray’s recent 4-1 victory over Çaykur Rizespor, where Osimhen collided with Rizespor’s Khusniddin Alikulov, resulting in Alikulov suffering a concussion.
Former referee Fırat Aydınus added fuel to the debate, stating on a Turkish TV program, “If the accessory you wear harms both your opponent’s and your own health, the referee can tell you not to wear it.” Concerns have been raised over the mask’s metal components, with some questioning if it contributed to the injury.
Despite the debate, Osimhen remains vital to Galatasaray’s title defense, and the derby will be a test of his impact in Turkish football. As the team hopes for a victory, the spotlight will be on whether Osimhen can shine, mask or no mask, against Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe.
