Players at Galatasaray have acknowledged that the absence of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen has played a significant role in the club dropping points in recent matches.
The forward has been sidelined since sustaining an arm injury during a UEFA Champions League encounter against Liverpool last month. Osimhen is expected to return to action later this month as he continues his recovery.
According to Turkish newspaper Sabah, members of the Galatasaray squad recently held a meeting to review their recent performances. During the discussions, the players reportedly concluded that the team has struggled in Osimhen’s absence.
The Nigerian international has been a key figure in Galatasaray’s attacking approach this season, with teammates pointing to his pressing and physical presence as vital elements of the team’s playing style.
“We’ve grown so used to Osimhen. When Osimhen is on the field, we’re getting results with forward pressure and pressing,” the newspaper quoted the players.
“(Mauro) Icardi isn’t Osimhen, and can’t play the same game with Icardi.”
Galatasaray Players issue
Galatasaray have experienced a dip in results since Osimhen’s injury, dropping eight points during the period he has been unavailable.
Those results have had an impact on the Turkish title race, with the Istanbul-based club now facing increased pressure as the season approaches its final stages.
Despite still being firmly in contention, Galatasaray’s advantage at the top of the table has narrowed considerably. They are currently only one point ahead of second-placed Trabzonspor, setting up a tense conclusion to the campaign.
With six rounds of matches remaining, every point could prove decisive in determining the outcome of the league title race.
Osimhen’s anticipated return later this month could therefore provide a timely boost for Galatasaray as they attempt to regain momentum and strengthen their position at the summit.
The Nigerian striker has established himself as a central figure in the team’s attacking structure, and his teammates believe his presence on the pitch brings a different dimension to the side’s performance.
