Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has said that although the team are feeling the impact of Victor Osimhen’s absence, they remain strong without the Nigerian attacker.
He said this following their 1-0 win against Kocaelispor on Sunday night, where the Yellow-Reds clinched all three points thanks to a second-half goal from Turkish defender Abdülkerim Bardakcı.
Osimhen remains sidelined due to a groin injury he sustained during Galatasaray’s hard-fought 3-2 win over Istanbul Başakşehir at the Başakşehir Fatih Terim Stadium.
In his post-match comments, Buruk stated that the team missed the Nigerian international, emphasising that his presence provides a psychological edge against opponents.
He said via Hall TV: “Having Osimhen [in the team] is not solely about the player, but his presence on the pitch serves as a psychological advantage… With Osimhen, the pressure in attack, of course, and having a goalscorer like him in the penalty area is very important.
“We are strong with Osimhen. We are also strong without him, as we have capable players. We do miss Osimhen. We played under considerable pressure, but having a clinical striker is vital. I was also satisfied with Deniz’s performance.”
Ahead of their next match against Trabzonspor, Buruk is hopeful that the Nigerian international will be available at Papara Park.
“Trabzonspor suffered a loss this week. Their motivation will be high. They have an excellent squad. Their primary goal will be to beat Galatasaray. We will also prepare this week. If our players can return, and if we can get Osimhen and Lemina fit, we will field a strong team.”
Turkey: We miss Osimhen, but we’re strong without him – Buruk