Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has voiced his frustration over his team’s tactical approach, which he believes makes it difficult for Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen to operate effectively.
Despite securing a 2-1 comeback win over Alanyaspor, Buruk was unimpressed with how his side executed their game plan.
Osimhen, on loan from Napoli, continued his impressive form by netting the decisive goal in the second half. His strike sealed Galatasaray’s comeback after they went into halftime trailing.
READ MORE:Ola Aina dominates Europe’s best with defensive brilliance
The Nigerian forward has now scored 23 goals and provided five assists in all competitions, recording an impressive 28 goal contributions in 28 matches this season.
Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray reacts after the Turkish Super League match between Hatayspor and Galatasaray at Mersin Stadium in Mersin , Turkey on January 17 , 2025. Photo by Seskimphoto Hatayspor v Galatasaray – Turkish Super League PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxTUR
Buruk Slams Players for Tactical Decisions
Although the result favored Galatasaray, Buruk was particularly unhappy with his team’s first-half struggles and their over-reliance on long balls when Osimhen is on the field.
“We needed to wake up after the first half. The first ball that went into our goal was a goal. We needed to react, and we did,” Buruk said via Galatasaray’s official website.
“After the equalizer, we played with more confidence and controlled possession better.”
He criticized his players for instinctively launching long passes towards Osimhen rather than using short, controlled build-up play.
“We sometimes play unnecessary long balls. We show this, we work on it, but sometimes the game is different. When Osimhen is on the field, the player thinks of throwing long balls to Osimhen, Morata,” Buruk explained.
“There are moments when long balls are necessary under pressure, but in other situations, we should involve the wingers and create better attacking moves.”
Despite Buruk’s concerns, Turkish pundit Ilker Yagcioglu singled out three players, including Osimhen, for their crucial roles in Galatasaray’s victory.
“I think Galatasaray owes its win to three players,” Yagcioglu told TRT Spor, as quoted by Haber Sari Kirmizi.
“Barış Alper Yılmaz played a major role in both goals. Osimhen and Davinson Sanchez also stood out. These three were the difference-makers.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Yılmaz’s pace and creativity on the wing led to Osimhen’s match-winner, while Sanchez was defensively solid, ensuring the team held on for the win.
