Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Galatasaray striker, Victor Osimhen, has shared details about the serious facial injury that almost ended his football career.
In an interview with journalists, Osimhen explained that he now only eats with the right side of his mouth due to permanent metal implants in his jaw.
The injury took place during Napoli’s 3-2 defeat against Inter Milan at the San Siro, when he collided with Milan Skriniar while going for a header.
He briefly lost consciousness, and subsequent scans revealed multiple fractures on the left side of his face, including a broken jaw and damage around his eye.
Doctors informed him that surgery was necessary for him to continue playing professionally.
The procedure involved inserting several plates and 18 screws to stabilize his jaw. The recovery process was extremely painful, making it difficult for him to eat and sleep.
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Reflecting on the incident, Osimhen stated: “It happened in 2021 against Inter Milan. I hit my jaw on his head, and the bones on the left side of my face were shattered.
“The doctor told me surgery was the only option if I wanted to keep playing.
“Now, I can only eat on the right side of my face for the rest of my life; the left side is held together with metal implants, so I can’t take any risks.”
To safeguard his face, he continues to wear a protective mask during matches.
Despite these lasting changes, Osimhen remains one of the most fearless forwards in world football, often challenging defenders in the air and scoring many goals with headers.
