'No Osimhen' - Turkish coach explains why Galatasaray were soundly beaten by AZ Alkmaar in UEL

Former Turkish manager Önder Özen has pointed to the absence of Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen and two other influential players as a key factor in Galatasaray’s disappointing 4-1 defeat to AZ Alkmaar in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night.  

The Turkish giants struggled to pose a significant attacking threat in the absence of Osimhen, who has been a crucial figure for the club this season.

Without their star forward, Galatasaray managed just two shots on target, one of which resulted in a goal from Hungarian defender Roland Sallai.  

Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli last summer, has been in outstanding form, scoring 17 goals and providing five assists in 23 matches across all competitions.

His suspension for accumulated yellow cards in the group stage left Galatasaray lacking firepower up front despite the presence of winter signing Alvaro Morata.  

Speaking on Neo Spor YouTube channel via habersarikirmizi, Özen highlighted the impact of missing key players, including Lucas Torreira and Davinson Sánchez, alongside Osimhen.  

"No Torreira, no Davinson Sanchez, no Osimhen. You can't play the same game without the three important players in the backbone," Özen remarked.  

"Sometimes you have to play according to the conditions. This is the first time I've seen Galatasaray this disorganized in the last two and a half seasons."

With Osimhen set to return for the second leg at RAMS Park, Galatasaray will be hoping for a turnaround to keep their European hopes alive.

The Super Eagles striker will be eager to make an impact and help his side overturn the first-leg deficit.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com