Victor Osimhen: A Key Piece in Galatasaray’s Puzzle
Galatasaray’s recent 2-0 defeat against Konyaspor wasn’t just a setback in their Süper Lig campaign; it ignited speculation surrounding the future of two of their star players – Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi – at a crucial juncture of both the league title race and their Champions League journey. The loss at Medaş Konya Büyükşehir Stadium, with goals from Adil Demirbağ and Blaz Kramer, tightened the league standings and breathed new life into Fenerbahçe’s title aspirations.
Osimhen’s Absence Raises Eyebrows
The scoreline itself was concerning, but the bigger story unfolded when fans noticed Victor Osimhen wasn’t even on the matchday squad. This was particularly surprising given his sensational performance just days prior in a 5-2 Champions League victory over Juventus, where he delivered a commanding individual display. His absence immediately sparked questions, especially considering he arrived last summer for a Turkish transfer record fee of €75 million ($88 million) with a contract extending until 2029.
Galatasaray officially cited right knee discomfort as the reason for Osimhen’s omission, stating it was a precautionary measure. However, reports suggest Osimhen informed head coach Okan Buruk about the pain and his reluctance to risk further injury ahead of the crucial Champions League return leg in Turin. This conversation ultimately influenced the team selection.
Salary Concerns Surface
Adding fuel to the fire, Turkish media outlets reported that Osimhen hadn’t received his January and February salaries, despite a net annual package of €21 million. This delay raised concerns about player morale, although the coaching staff maintained it was a routine precaution given the team’s busy schedule. This situation highlights the financial complexities of managing a squad filled with high-profile international players.
Balancing Act: Domestic League vs. Champions League
While teammates trained outdoors, Osimhen focused on individual work in the gym, indicating the club’s priority to preserve their key attacking asset for European competition rather than risk him in a domestic fixture. This decision, while potentially costly in the league, underscores the strategic importance Galatasaray places on their Champions League ambitions. You can find more information about Galatasaray’s Champions League campaign on UEFA’s official website.
Icardi’s Struggles Add to the Concerns
Mauro Icardi’s situation was equally problematic. The 32-year-old Argentine, a central figure in Galatasaray’s attack since 2022, struggled with back and neck stiffness during the final training session before the Konyaspor match. This forced him to cut the session short and cast doubt on his fitness. Starting Icardi was a necessity due to Osimhen’s unavailability, but his performance lacked sharpness, impacting Galatasaray’s attacking momentum.
Buruk substituted Icardi at halftime, a decision criticized by some commentators unaware of his physical condition. Without both Osimhen and a fully fit Icardi, Galatasaray appeared blunt and predictable in attack, allowing Konyaspor to capitalize on their vulnerability.
The Bigger Picture: Timing, Fitness, and Ambition
The defeat wasn’t necessarily a sign of unrest within the squad, but rather a consequence of timing, fitness management, and the challenges of balancing domestic dominance with European ambition. Galatasaray remains in control of their destiny, but this episode has highlighted how little margin for error they have. When Osimhen is sidelined and Icardi isn’t at his best, their attacking prowess diminishes significantly. The club’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in determining their success this season. For more insights into Turkish football, check out Transfermarkt’s Süper Lig page.
