Galatasaray vs Alanyaspor: Buruk to make Victor Osimhen decision that might draw fans' ire

Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk is expected to start Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen from the bench in their match against Alanyaspor this Saturday, Afrik-Foot reports.

Last week, Osimhen was a notable omission from the Galatasaray squad that suffered a 2-0 defeat to Konyaspor at the Konya Büyükşehir Belediye Stadium.

Before that fixture, Buruk revealed that the striker would be absent due to knee discomfort. Ultimately, his absence was keenly felt as the team slumped to their second loss of the campaign.

Victor Osimhen before the UEFA Champions League match between Galatasaray SK and Atletico Madrid — Victor Osimhen for Galatasaray. Photo by IMAGO

That defeat ensured their lead at the summit of the table was cut to just two points. Following the match, many Galatasaray fans criticized Buruk and the club’s management for the selection decision.

Subsequently, news emerged that the coaching staff had decided not to bench Osimhen for the remainder of the season unless sidelined by injury.

Afterwards, the Super Eagle returned to the starting lineup when Cimbom locked horns with Juventus in the Champions League Round of 16 playoffs. He played the full 120 minutes and scored the vital goal that turned the tide in their favor.

How Buruk Plans to Manage Victor Osimhen Against Alanyaspor

Okan Buruk, head coach of Galatasaray SK, gestures during the UEFA Champions League knockout game between Juventus FC and Galatasaray — Okan Buruk, head coach of Galatasaray SK. Photo by IMAGO

Despite his recent heroics, Osimhen is set to be benched again for the home game against Alanyaspor.

Reports from the Turkish media indicate that Okan Buruk plans to start Mauro Icardi, with Osimhen providing an option from the bench.

This decision is a precautionary measure, as the Nigerian star is still dealing with lingering discomfort.

Given Osimhen’s history of injuries, Galatasaray is exercising caution to avoid a long-term setback that could jeopardize their season at this critical juncture.

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray SK celebrates after scoring the second goal of his team with teammates during the Trendyol Turkish Super League match between Galatasaray SK and Kayserispor — Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray SK celebrates. Turkey Copyright: ImagoxSeskimphotox

Alanyaspor currently sits 10th in the table, making Galatasaray the overwhelming favorites. While the Cimbom are expected to secure all three points, any failure to do so will likely result in a harsh backlash from the fans against Buruk and his staff.

Turkish football supporters are notoriously passionate; if Galatasaray were to be toppled by their bitter rivals Fenerbahçe at the top of the standings, it could trigger a period of chaos for the club.