Turkish pundit Mehmet Demirkol has stressed how crucial Victor Osimhen is to Galatasaray’s system, warning that the team faces serious tactical problems whenever the Nigerian striker is unavailable.
Speaking on Socrates Magazine’s YouTube channel, Demirkol explained that Galatasaray struggle to press and start effectively without Osimhen and Barış Alper Yılmaz leading the line.
This concern comes after Osimhen picked up an ankle injury while on international duty with Nigeria during their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda. Tests confirmed a moderate ligament sprain with bleeding, prompting Galatasaray to fly him back on a private jet for urgent treatment in Istanbul.
Head coach Okan Buruk admitted Osimhen is still in pain, leaving doubts over his participation in their UEFA Champions League opener against Eintracht Frankfurt. Despite this, reports suggest Osimhen is eager to make sacrifices to help his team. Since his record €75m move from Napoli, the 26-year-old has already scored twice in three Süper Lig matches, showcasing pace, pressing, and lethal finishing that have made him indispensable.
If unfit, Galatasaray may need to rely on Mauro Icardi, who isn’t fully match-ready, or shift their attacking dynamics. Still, fans hope to see Osimhen recover in time for Europe’s biggest stage.
