- Victor Osimhen injury still affects his face four years later.
- Osimhen mask is due to nerve damage and eating difficulties.
- Galatasaray striker reveals the struggles since the 2021 collision.
- Osimhen explains how he still lives with pain and numbness.
Victor Osimhen has spoken openly about the reality of living with the facial damage that changed his career and daily life. The Nigerian striker, who suffered multiple fractures in 2021, says the injury still affects how he eats and moves his face.
Speaking during a conversation with MMA champion Kerim Engizek, Osimhen explained that only one side of his mouth works properly.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
READ ALSO: Lagos Athletes Intensify Training for 2026 National Sports Festival
“Now, I only eat on the right side of my face,” he said. “I can’t eat through the other side. The left side doesn’t function properly anymore.”
Osimhen sustained the injury during a Serie A match between Napoli and Inter Milan after colliding with Milan Škriniar. The impact left him with several fractures, including a broken cheekbone and eye socket. He underwent major reconstructive surgery involving titanium plates and 18 screws.
Doctors initially feared he could lose vision in his left eye. Although he returned to football, Osimhen says he still deals with numbness and reduced movement.
Recalling the incident, he said a cross came from the wing and he jumped for a header, only to collide chin-first with Škriniar.
“It wasn’t intentional, but I hit his skull with my chin and the bone shattered everywhere,” he said.
After being rushed to a Milan hospital for scans, surgeons recommended immediate operation. At first, he refused.
“There’s no way I’m having surgery,” he said. “But it was the only way to continue playing. I had no choice.”
READ ALSO: Eze Fires Stunning Hat-Trick as Arsenal Crush Spurs in North London Derby
Osimhen says he still lives with reminders of that night: pain, numbness and difficulty chewing. He added that smiling is also affected.
“When I smile, only one side moves properly. Eating is the biggest reminder; food falls out if I try the left side.”
Now playing for Galatasaray after leaving Napoli, Osimhen has scored 12 goals and provided five assists in 15 matches this season. His protective mask, originally prescribed after surgery, has remained part of his career because of the lasting complications of the Victor Osimhen injury.
