Serhat Ulueren, a moderator on the Turkish football forum Telegol, has warned that Galatasaray’s vice‑president Abdullah Kavukçu is under intense pressure after the club’s star striker Victor Osimhen declined an offer to become vice‑captain. Ulueren told GS Gazetesi that fans are increasingly frustrated by the club’s lack of transfer activity this summer.
“Galatasaray fans are frustrated by the lack of transfers,” Ulueren said. “Osimhen was offered the vice‑captaincy, but he refused. We saw it in the match; he didn’t even wear the armband.” He added that the Nigerian international handed the armband to winger Yunus Akgün during Galatasaray’s 3‑3 draw with Rennes in a pre‑season friendly on Sunday, implying that Akgün should lead the team instead.
The incident comes amid a broader sense of uncertainty at the club. Ulueren pointed to several players who are reportedly unhappy or seeking moves. “Davinson isn’t playing and wants to go to Como. Barış also has suitors from the Premier League. Why aren’t you solving these problems?” he asked. “I see that Abdullah Kavukçu is under a lot of pressure. That is how management is. Today you are happy, tomorrow you are not,” he added.
The comments highlight the growing tension between the club’s hierarchy and its supporters. Fans have been calling for decisive action in the transfer market, especially after the club’s limited activity in the summer window. The lack of new signings has left many questioning whether Galatasaray can maintain its competitive edge in the Süper Lig and European competitions.
Osimhen’s refusal to wear the vice‑captaincy armband was a clear statement of his stance on leadership within the squad. By passing the armband to Yunus Akgün, he suggested a shift in the club’s hierarchy that could signal a broader change in how the team is managed. The move has sparked debate among supporters and analysts alike, who are now watching closely to see how the club’s leadership will respond.
The situation also raises questions about the club’s transfer strategy. With Davinson reportedly seeking a move to Como and Barış attracting interest from Premier League clubs, Galatasaray’s board faces pressure to address these departures or secure suitable replacements. Failure to do so could exacerbate fan dissatisfaction and undermine the club’s performance on the pitch.
As the season approaches, Galatasaray’s management will need to navigate these internal challenges while maintaining stability. The club’s next steps in the transfer market and its handling of leadership roles will be closely monitored by fans, media, and football analysts across Turkey and beyond. The outcome will likely shape the club’s trajectory for the coming campaign and influence its standing in both domestic and European competitions.
