Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has shared a detailed account of the painful aftermath of the jaw injury that changed his career and daily life permanently. The Napoli forward revealed that the damage was so severe it left him with lasting physical limitations, including being able to chew only on the right side of his face and wearing a protective mask for the rest of his playing career.
Osimhen recounted the terrifying moment the injury occurred, explaining that it happened during a fierce aerial challenge. According to him, the collision was accidental but brutal, as his jaw slammed forcefully against another player’s head.
“My bone in the jaw was cracked everywhere”
Narrating the incident, he said:
“He was bringing his head behind—not on purpose—you know. So I hit my jaw on his head. Immediately, my bone in the jaw was cracked everywhere. Then I went hospital in Milan.”
Upon arrival at the hospital, doctors conducted several scans to assess the damage. Osimhen said the medical team quickly realised that the injury required major intervention—a recommendation he initially rejected because of the nature of the surgery.
“When the doctor checked, he said I needed surgery. I said no, I don’t do surgery. I didn’t want to do it because they were going to tear my face. But the doctor said the only way I could continue playing football was surgery.”
He revealed that the physicians eventually presented a second, less invasive surgical route, involving access through the inside of his mouth. Although this spared him external scars, the procedure still resulted in significant structural changes to his face.
“Now, I can only eat here for the rest of my life. There’s an iron from my jaw up to my cheekbone.”
Osimhen explained that the implant, plates, and overall reconstruction of his facial bones are the reasons he must wear a protective mask in every match—a precaution that will remain with him permanently.
Social media reactions:
@Fillipo_Saga: “We only see the greatness, not the stories and tribulations behind it.”
@Mr_Allegedly: “See extent when person dey go for passion. Osimhen is a hero. We love you. Even with all this, he make great sacrifices.”
@Farmbook00: “Omoh, there’s always a price to pay! Before you talk down on anyone, understand what they go through.”
@crypto_psalm: “Omo football no easy o. These injuries dey mad.“
Watch the video below…
"Now, I Only Eat On The Right Side Of My Face; I Can't Eat Through The Other Side."
— Victor Osimhen Reveals Aftermath Of his Jaw Injury That Makes Him Use Mask. pic.twitter.com/XZ0o4DDyIs
— 𝐀𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐲𝐆𝐑𝐍 (@AsakyGRN) November 25, 2025