Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has confirmed that Nigeria international Victor Osimhen will return to action on Friday against Karagumruk, amid an ongoing mosque-name controversy linked to the club’s record signing.
Buruk defended his decision to leave Osimhen out of Saturday’s 3-0 win over Gaziantep, saying the striker needed more time to regain match fitness.
“Osimhen had a five or six-day training period,” Buruk told CNN Türk. “Playing during that time could have been risky. I spoke to him, and he preferred to rest for this match and aim for minutes in the next one.”
The 26-year-old joined Galatasaray from Napoli this summer in a record €75m transfer but reported late for pre-season due to prolonged negotiations. He spent last season on loan at the Istanbul club, scoring 37 goals and providing eight assists in 41 appearances. His new deal makes him one of Europe’s highest-paid players and the biggest signing in Turkish football history.
Just days after his arrival, Osimhen became embroiled in an unusual controversy when the Bulut Mosque in Karatay, Konya, appeared on Google Maps as the “Victor Osimhen Mosque.” The name change, reportedly caused by incorrect user edits, sparked backlash from worshippers demanding the restoration of the original name.
“This has been Bulut Mosque for over a decade. Victor Osimhen is a Christian name and has nothing to do with our congregation,” one member told Fanatik. Another added, “He is not from Konyaspor, has done nothing for the mosque, and this is irrelevant to Konya.”
Community member Zeki Yaylacı described the change as “offensive” and called for regulations to prevent such incidents. Authorities are now being urged to correct the online listing.
There is no indication Osimhen was aware of or involved in the change. He has since returned to full training and is set for a highly anticipated debut on Friday.
