Umit Karan criticises Victor Osimhen after Galatasaray injury setback

Turkish football pundit Umit Karan has criticised Victor Osimhen for failing to do more to avoid injury ahead of Galatasaray’s crucial fixtures.

Osimhen missed Galatasaray’s 3-1 defeat by Sporting CP on Matchday One of the UEFA Champions League after suffering a groin injury during the club’s 3-2 victory over Istanbul Basaksehir.

The result extended an unwanted record for Galatasaray, who have failed to win any of their six European matches without the Nigeria international in the team.

Karan expressed his frustration on his YouTube channel and on HT Spors, questioning Osimhen’s preparation with a major European fixture approaching.

“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,” he said.

Karan also criticised Galatasaray’s overall performance against Sporting CP, arguing that the team struggled badly in midfield and became ineffective without its leading striker.

“No midfield, and when Victor Osimhen isn’t there, Galatasaray isn’t there either! We started last year’s Champions League the same way,” he added.

“Bar?s 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.”

Galatasaray’s coaching staff and medical board are now targeting the away match against Trabzonspor for Osimhen’s return.

The club is carrying out intensive work to make the Nigerian striker available for that fixture.