Why Victor Osimhen might be forced to play without his mask in Turkey
Victor Osimhen could be forced to remove his signature protective face mask when Galatasaray face off against fierce rivals Fenerbahçe, managed by Jose Mourinho, in this weekend’s much-anticipated Turkish Super Lig derby.
The high-stakes clash, regarded as Turkey’s biggest football rivalry, will be pivotal in the race for early-season dominance, with both teams aiming for supremacy. Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray with high expectations, has been wearing the mask since suffering a serious facial injury during his time at Napoli.
The injury, caused by a collision with Inter Milan’s Milan Skriniar, required surgery involving the insertion of six plates and 18 screws. Since then, the mask has become a crucial part of Osimhen’s identity, offering him protection while continuing his prolific career.
However, recent reports suggest that Fenerbahçe fans are lobbying the Turkish Football Federation to ban Osimhen from wearing the mask, claiming it poses a risk to opponents. This controversy erupted after Galatasaray’s 4-1 win over Çaykur Rizespor, during which Osimhen collided with Khusniddin Alikulov, leading to the latter’s concussion.
Former referee Fırat Aydınus commented on the situation, stating, “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 about the mask’s metal components, with some suggesting it may have contributed to Alikulov’s injury.
Despite the debate surrounding the mask, Victor Osimhen remains a key player for Galatasaray, and the upcoming derby will be a critical test of his influence in Turkish football. His previous record against Mourinho is noteworthy, with three goals in six appearances during their respective tenures in Serie A.
Meanwhile, Mourinho recently shared what he does not like about Victor Osimhen’s on-field behaviour despite good relationship.
