Fenerbahçe fail to block Victor Osimhen as Galatasaray star wins TFF green light

Fenerbahçe’s late attempt to stop Nigeria international Victor Osimhen from playing in the Istanbul Intercontinental Derby has failed, Soccernet.ng reports.

This development comes after the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) ruled that the Super Eagles striker is eligible to feature for Galatasaray in the encounter.

The build-up to one of Turkey’s biggest matches was dominated by controversy. Fenerbahçe submitted an official complaint to the TFF, arguing that Osimhen’s protective arm guard could put opposing players at risk. The Nigerian forward has been wearing the protection since returning from a forearm fracture suffered in March during a Champions League last-16 tie against Liverpool.

Fenerbahçe’s medical team claimed the custom-made brace was too rigid and might break safety rules set by the International Football Association Board (IFAB). They backed their argument with a detailed report, insisting that player safety must come first in such a high-intensity fixture.

Galatasaray, however, strongly disagreed. The club maintained that the arm support is purely medical, designed to stabilise the injury and manage pain. Removing it, they argued, would either expose Osimhen to further damage or make it impossible for him to play.

After reviewing both sides and consulting equipment guidelines, the TFF dismissed Fenerbahçe’s request as per The Guardian. The decision cleared Osimhen to take his place in the starting line-up at Rams Park in a crucial Week 31 clash that could shape the title race.

Head coach Okan Buruk confirmed the striker would lead the attack, an indicator of his importance to a Galatasaray side chasing the championship. Osimhen has scored 19 goals and provided seven assists in 30 appearances this season, making him one of the most decisive players in the league.

Galatasaray vs Fenerbahçe: Osimhen’s response, derby mind games

Even before the TFF delivered its verdict, Osimhen had already made his position clear. In a meeting with his coach, the striker showed his determination to play, regardless of the situation.

“If I'm not allowed to play with my protection, I'll play without it. Just let me be on the field on Sunday. I owe this to the Galatasaray fans,” he said, a statement that reportedly impressed Okan Buruk.

Many observers saw Fenerbahçe’s move as an attempt to unsettle Galatasaray and limit the influence of their most dangerous player.

Turkish commentators were quick to weigh in, with most dismissing the complaint.

Levent Tüzemen said: “I think Fenerbahçe's management is objecting to the bandage on Victor Osimhen's arm out of fear of the Nigerian star's presence. Osimhen has been playing for years with a carbon-made mask on his face that's as light as a feather. The bandage on his arm is no different from the mask on his face. I find Fenerbahçe's objection utterly meaningless.”

Turkish journalist Gürcan Bilgiç offered a more balanced view, pointing to the rules but also the need for common sense. He said:

“The rules on this matter are clear. Referees even make them remove rings or earrings. Osimhen's arm is broken. This injury also needs to be protected. But at the same time, the health of the other players on the field must be protected as well.

“In plain language, this is called; ‘Is his life a life, and ours an eggplant?’ For this reason, technology has produced softer materials. The Galatasaray medical team surely knows these things and will take measures in compliance with the rules.”

Osimhen’s journey back from injury has been swift. After surgery, he made his return in the Turkish Cup against Gençlerbirliği, playing 17 minutes without discomfort. He then told the coaching staff he was ready for the derby.
With Mauro Icardi expected to start on the bench, Osimhen will lead an attacking line that includes Barış Alper, Leroy Sané and Sara. His presence adds a cutting edge to Galatasaray’s attack at a time when every point matters.

Galatasaray boast a four-point advantage over second-placed Fenerbahçe with a home win likely to all but secure their fourth league title on the bounce.