Former Turkey international Erman Toroğlu has directed criticism at Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk over the club’s recent dip in form following Victor Osimhen’s injury. Osimhen sustained an arm injury during the second leg of Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League clash with Liverpool at Anfield in March, sidelining the Nigerian striker at a crucial point in the season. In his absence, the Yellow-Reds have struggled to maintain consistency, securing only one win from their last three Süper Lig fixtures.
During this period, Galatasaray suffered a 2-1 defeat to Trabzonspor, claimed a 3-1 victory over Göztepe, and were held to a 1-1 draw by Kocaelispor. Toroğlu, speaking to Habersarikirmizi, accused Buruk of failing to manage the squad effectively, suggesting an over-reliance on Osimhen. “There was Icardi, there was Osimhen, there was Okan Buruk. Now Osimhen is absent, Okan Buruk is absent. It’s that straightforward,” Toroğlu stated. “If you are reliant on just one player in such a large squad, the responsibility lies with you. Okan Buruk failed to manage this team. Osimhen was the one directing you on the pitch.”
Toroğlu also questioned Buruk’s handling of Mauro Icardi, claiming the Argentine forward’s form has suffered due to inconsistent playing time. “You attempted to substitute Icardi in the 89th minute because Osimhen was present, and you marginalized him. You did this, you did that, yet your team simply did not perform,” he added.
Osimhen has returned to training and is expected to be fit for selection before the end of the month. He is likely to feature in the squad for the upcoming match against Gençlerbirliği, with a potential start against Fenerbahçe on the horizon. His return could provide a timely boost for Buruk as Galatasaray seeks to regain momentum in the title race after dropping crucial points in recent weeks.
