Trabzonspor coach gives Onuachu injury update

Trabzonspor's Paul Onuachu celebrates after scoring during the Süper Lig match against Rizespor at Papara Park, Trabzon, Türkiye, March 14, 2026. (AA Photo)

Trabzonspor manager Thomas Reis has delivered an injury update on Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu, confirming the lanky forward will be unavailable for selection on Thursday evening when the Turkish outfit take on Scottish Premiership side Heart of Midlothian F.C. in the UEFA Conference League.

The 32-year-old Super Eagles international suffered an injury during last Thursday’s 4-2 victory over KuPS, where he opened the scoring in the early minutes before being forced off in the 10th minute.

The setback subsequently ruled the FC Ebedei product out of Monday’s high-profile domestic showdown against Besiktas.

Addressing reporters at Wednesday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the European tie, the German tactician outlined a potential recovery timeline for Onuachu.

Reis noted that the target man could return to action on Monday, October 26, when Trabzonspor face Rizespor on matchday nine of the Turkish Super Lig.

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However, should the forward not achieve full fitness in time for the trip to Rizespor, Reis left the door open for his comeback against Gaziantep FK on Sunday, November 1.

Providing a wider assessment of his squad’s fitness levels, Reis stated via Ajansspor, “Mustafa’s return to the field tomorrow will be a little early. If Onuachu cannot be with us in the Rizespor match, he will be with us in the next match.

“We will have a training session after the press conference. We will make the starting eleven decision after this training session.”

Since the start of the current campaign, Onuachu has established himself as a vital outlet for Trabzonspor, racking up eight starts across 11 appearances in all competitions and scoring three goals.

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