'It's a problem' – Demirkol highlights Osimhen's importance to Galatasaray

Turkish football pundit Mehmet Demirkol has underlined Victor Osimhen’s importance to Galatasaray, stressing that the team faces 'serious problems' when the Nigerian striker is unavailable.

Speaking on the Socrates Magazine YouTube channel, Demirkol explained that Galatasaray’s system becomes vulnerable without the 26-year-old forward leading the line alongside Barış Alper Yılmaz. 

"When Galatasaray doesn’t have both Osimhen and Barış Alper, it’s a problem. Serious problems arise during starts and pressures. You need to play something else,” Demirkol said as quoted by habersarikirmizi.

Osimhen has already made a strong impact this season for Galatasaray, scoring twice in his first three Süper Lig appearances. 

However, his availability has recently been cast into doubt after he picked up an ankle injury while on international duty with Nigeria. 

Medical tests revealed a moderate ligament sprain, with the club confirming that treatment has begun in Istanbul.

Head coach Okan Buruk admitted that Osimhen remains in pain and his participation in Galatasaray’s upcoming fixtures, including their UEFA Champions League opener against Eintracht Frankfurt, will depend on his recovery. 

The uncertainty has heightened concerns about how the Turkish champions will cope without their talismanic striker.

Osimhen's pace, pressing ability and goalscoring instincts have quickly made him indispensable to Buruk’s plans.

Without him, Galatasaray may need to adapt their approach, potentially shifting emphasis onto Mauro Icardi or finding alternative ways to build attacks.

Wale Adejumo

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