Turkey: What Galatasaray coach said as Osimhen returns with assist in 3-1 win over Kasimpasa

During Galatasaray's 3-1 victory against Kasimpasa on Friday, assistant coach İrfan Saraloğlu discussed the return of Victor Osimhen from injury. The Nigerian striker, sidelined in September due to an injury sustained during a clash with Istanbul Başakşehir, came on in the second half of the match at Rams Park. Replacing Deniz Gul, Osimhen was tasked with preventing a repeat of his earlier injury while also providing crucial support to the team's attack.

Throughout the match, Osimhen created several scoring chances for Galatasaray and, ultimately, assisted Gabonese midfielder Mario Lemina in the final goal of the game. Following the match, Saraloğlu revealed that the team's performance suffered following Lucas Torreira's red card in the 65th minute. The assistant coach noted, "During the second half, following the dismissal, we became more defensive, and our tactical structure was compromised."

He went on to mention that the goal conceded was a result of Sanchez being out of position, and the opposing team exploited the space created.

Saraloğlu also explained the reason for introducing Osimhen late in the match, emphasizing the club's focus on managing his workload and ensuring the welfare of players coming back from international commitments. With Osimhen having recently recovered from injury, the assistant coach insisted that the player's form would be critical for Galatasaray's success in the upcoming 2026/2027 season.

The Nigerian forward had previously scored six goals and provided two assists in just four matches, including contests against Corum FK, Erzurumspor FK, Göztepe, and Istanbul Başakşehir.