Nigerian international striker Victor Osimhen has spoken about the lasting effects of the serious facial injury he suffered earlier in his career, revealing the extent of the medical procedure and the challenges he still faces.

Serious Injury From On-Field Collision

Osimhen sustained multiple fractures to his face in November 2021 following a collision during a Serie A match while playing for SSC Napoli. The incident, which involved a clash of heads, left the forward requiring urgent and complex surgery.
Medical experts later confirmed that the damage went beyond a simple cheekbone fracture, affecting several areas of his face. To stabilise the injuries, surgeons inserted six plates and as many as 18 screws during the operation.
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                                                                          Victor Osimhen // Instagram
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“I Can’t Eat With the Right Side”

In a recent interview, Osimhen described the long-term effects of the injury, highlighting how it continues to affect his daily life.
“I can’t eat with the right side of my face. There are 18 screws there.”
The striker explained that despite returning to professional football and maintaining top-level performance, the physical impact of the injury has not fully disappeared.
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Recovery and Protective Measures

Following surgery, Osimhen underwent a recovery period that initially kept him out of action for several weeks. Upon his return, he began wearing a protective face mask during matches—a precaution that has since become closely associated with his on-field appearance.

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Medical professionals had earlier described the operation as complex due to the severity of the fractures and the force of the impact.
Victor Osimhen // Instagram

Continued Career at the Top Level

Despite the injury, Osimhen has continued to perform at a high level in European football. The forward, currently playing for Galatasaray S.K., remains a key figure for both club and the Nigerian national team.
He is widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading strikers, known for his pace, aerial ability and goal-scoring record at club and international level.

Ongoing Impact

Osimhen’s remarks provide insight into the long-term physical consequences that can follow serious sporting injuries, even after a return to competitive play. While he continues to compete at the highest level, his experience highlights the enduring nature of such medical conditions.