Turkish football pundit Umit Karan has criticised Victor Osimhen over his latest injury setback, questioning whether the Super Eagles striker could have done more to protect himself ahead of Galatasaray’s important fixtures, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Osimhen missed Galatasaray’s UEFA Champions League opener against Sporting CP after suffering a groin injury during the club’s 3-2 league victory over Istanbul Basaksehir.
His absence was felt heavily as Galatasaray suffered a 3-1 defeat to the Portuguese side, extending their poor European record without the Nigerian striker.
The Istanbul giants have now failed to win any of their last six European matches in which Osimhen has not featured, further highlighting his importance to the Turkish champions.
Karan, speaking on his YouTube channel and HT Spor, expressed his frustration with the circumstances surrounding Osimhen’s injury.
“I’m also upset with Osimhen. You have a Champions League match in a week. Don’t you dare take care of yourself a little.”
The former Galatasaray striker also questioned the team’s overall performance against Sporting CP and stressed how much the club depends on Osimhen.
“No midfield, and when Victor Osimhen isn’t there, Galatasaray isn’t there either! We started last year’s Champions League the same way. Bar?? Alper Y?lmaz and Sane couldn’t deliver. Rafael Leao came on late. God willing, we won’t suffer a loss like this in the league too.”
Meanwhile, Galatasaray’s coaching and medical teams are working towards having Osimhen available for the club’s next league assignment away to Trabzonspor.
The Nigerian remains under close medical supervision as the club steps up efforts to ensure he recovers in time for the potentially demanding fixture.
Osimhen’s return would provide a major boost for Galatasaray after their disappointing Champions League start, with the striker continuing to be central to the club’s ambitions both domestically and in Europe.