The Turkish side suffered a heavy 4-0 loss in the round of 16 second-leg match at Anfield, but the focus after the game shifted to Osimhen’s condition after he fractured his arm in an early incident.
The Nigeria international was injured just ten minutes into the match after colliding with Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté during an aerial challenge. Konaté landed on Osimhen’s arm, leaving the forward in visible pain.
Despite the severity of the knock, Osimhen continued playing through the remainder of the first half with his arm heavily bandaged. However, he did not return for the second half after medical staff assessed the injury and advised his withdrawal. Subsequent examinations confirmed a fracture in his arm.
Speaking after the match, Buruk directed his frustration at the referee, claiming the challenge on Osimhen should have been penalised.
“We had to take him out of the game because his pain worsened,” Buruk said. “Looking at Osimhen’s position, we saw that Konaté was able to commit these fouls very easily. Perhaps one of the worst referees officiated the game.”
Buruk also alleged that the physical nature of the challenge was deliberate, suggesting Liverpool were aware of the importance of Osimhen to Galatasaray’s attacking threat.
The injury proved a significant setback for the Turkish club, who struggled in the absence of their key striker and eventually exited the competition following the comprehensive defeat.
The incident involving Osimhen was not the only concern for Galatasaray during the match. Teammate Noa Lang also suffered an injury later in the game after his hand became caught in an advertising board.
Lang required oxygen treatment on the pitch before being carried off on a stretcher and transported to hospital for further medical attention.
In the aftermath, Galatasaray officials indicated they are considering legal action over the circumstances surrounding Lang’s injury.
The club’s general secretary, Eray Yazga, confirmed that a complaint had already been made to UEFA representatives.
“We made a complaint to UEFA representatives after the match. We are in talks with lawyers. We will file a lawsuit for compensation to UEFA,” Yazga said.
The dual injury incidents have added to the frustration within the club following their elimination from the Champions League.
Images shared after the match showed Osimhen and Lang in contact via a video call, appearing to offer each other support as they begin their respective recoveries.
Further updates on Osimhen’s condition, including whether surgery will be required, are expected in the coming days.
