Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has openly acknowledged the difficulties his squad is facing while operating without their star striker, Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian international has been sidelined for the “Yellow and Reds” since sustaining a forearm injury during a high-profile UEFA Champions League encounter against Liverpool last month, leaving a noticeable void in the Turkish champions’ offensive lineup.
The absence of the prolific forward has coincided with a visible decline in the club’s domestic consistency. The reigning title holders have struggled to maintain their usual clinical edge, recording just a single victory alongside two defeats in their most recent three outings. This underwhelming run continued this past Sunday, as Buruk’s men were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Kocaelispor.
Following the deadlock, Buruk reflected on the tactical importance of the Super Eagles talisman, noting that the team’s overall dynamics are significantly enhanced when he is leading the line.
“The game with Osimhen is also valuable and important. It was tough without Osimhen,” Buruk remarked during his post-match analysis of the stalemate.
As Galatasaray navigates a demanding fixture list, the coaching staff is under increasing pressure to find alternative attacking solutions until Osimhen is cleared to return to competitive action. The manager’s comments underscore just how central the striker has become to the club’s ambitions of defending their league crown and competing on the European stage.
