Mask Controversy, Fenerbahçe Files Complaint Over Osimhen’s Protective Gear Before Title Clash

(Victor Osimhen. Photo by Goal. com)

According to PUNCH Sports Extra, Turkish Super Lig team Fenerbahçe has reportedly filed a complaint against Galatasaray regarding Victor Osimhen's use of a protective mask, which they claim puts rival players in risk.

After missing more than a month due to an arm injury, Osimhen made his comeback to action on Wednesday night.

In Galatasaray's cup loss to Gençlerbirliği S.K., the 27-year-old played for 13 minutes while wearing a long-sleeved jersey with a bandaged arm. 
 
According to reports, Galatasaray's competitors have denounced the use of Osimhen's equipment to the Turkish Football Federation. Galatasaray is scheduled to play Fenerbahçe in the league on Sunday.

"Victor Osimhen's hard protective gear during games, according to Fenerbahçe, puts other players at risk." According to Turkish news outlet HT Spor, the yellow-and-navy team is getting ready to formally bring up this matter by submitting an application to the Turkish Football Federation.

"A report on materials that can be used in accordance with IFAB rules is being prepared by the club's medical team." 

After suffering a severe facial injury during a game while playing for Napoli in 2021, Osimhen wears a protection mask.

The Nigerian suffered fractures to his cheekbone and eye socket after clashing with Milan Skriniar of Inter Milan.

Osimhen needed surgery and was sidelined for three months. According to a statement from Napoli, "titanium plates and eighteen screws were used in the operation." 

When Osimhen resumed playing, the doctors recommended that he wear a protective mask.

Before their possible title decider on Sunday, it is unclear how the TFF would decide on the issue.

With four games left, Galatasaray leads the Super Lig with 71 points, four ahead of Fenerbahçe.