Galatasaray insider Ali Naci Küçük has criticised the Turkish champions’ tactical approach in the absence of marquee striker Victor Osimhen, arguing that the team has become overly dependent on the Nigerian forward.

Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray permanently in the summer transfer window, sustained a fractured arm during a UEFA Champions League second-leg clash against Liverpool at Anfield, forcing him out of recent matches.

Since his injury setback, Galatasaray have struggled for consistency, winning just one of their last three league fixtures against Trabzonspor, Göztepe and Kocaelispor. 

The dip in form has intensified scrutiny on head coach Okan Buruk, with sections of supporters questioning his tactical flexibility in Osimhen’s absence.

Speaking on the 343 Digital YouTube channel, Küçük insisted that Galatasaray’s struggles stem from a lack of preparation for life without their key striker.

"The only mistake Okan Buruk made this season was not creating a plan without Osimhen. Icardi is not the same type of player as Osimhen," he said via Habersarikirmizi. 

"When Osimhen wasn't there, Galatasaray lost the Super Cup and suffered three away defeats in the league.

"It's not right for Galatasaray to be so dependent on one player. However, it's also not right to say 'Osimhen is making Okan Buruk champions'."

Despite the criticism, Buruk has received a boost ahead of Galatasaray’s upcoming league fixture against Gençlerbirliği, with Osimhen travelling with the squad to Ankara.

The Nigerian forward has been a key figure for the club this season, registering 12 goals and four assists in 19 league appearances, underlining his importance to Galatasaray’s attacking structure.

Adeyemi Adewale