Fenerbahce have filed an official complaint with the Turkish Football Federation targeting Nigeria international Victor Osimhen's protective arm gear, as tensions build ahead of their high-stakes Super Lig derby against Galatasaray.

According to T24, Fenerbahce argue that the hard protective brace Osimhen has been wearing since suffering a broken arm poses a potential health risk to opponents. The club have strengthened their case by submitting a medical report that references IFAB regulations.

Osimhen's return from injury

Osimhen sustained the arm injury during a UEFA Champions League fixture against Liverpool, which kept him out of action for over a month. He returned to the pitch from the bench in a cup match before working his way back into contention for league duties.

The Turkish Football Federation now holds the deciding vote on whether Osimhen's protective equipment meets the required safety standards and whether he will be permitted to wear it in the derby.

Stakes in the title race

The timing of the complaint adds an extra layer of intensity to what is already one of Turkish football's fiercest rivalries. With the title race in the Super Lig still very much alive, the outcome of the derby between Fenerbahce and Galatasaray carries enormous weight for both clubs.

Despite the injury disruption, Osimhen has been a consistent contributor this season, registering 12 goals and 2 assists across 19 league appearances — numbers that underline why his availability for the derby matters so much to Fenerbahce's ambitions.