Turkish football analyst Rasim Ozan Kütahyalı has warned that Galatasaray may take a big decision over manager Okan Buruk as pressure continues to grow.
The warning comes at a difficult time for the club, following a 2-1 defeat to Trabzonspor which has made the title race much tighter. Galatasaray are still top of the league with 64 points after 27 matches, but both Fenerbahçe and Trabzonspor are just one point behind.
Recent results have raised concerns despite a few wins. The team have struggled away from home, losing four straight matches in all competitions. The absence of Victor Osimhen has also affected their attack, with the team losing several games without the striker.
Kütahyalı believes the situation could get worse for the coach if results do not improve quickly.
“If Galatasaray fails to win the Göztepe and Kocaelispor matches, Okan Buruk will be sacked,” he said. “This is Galatasaray. He must also find a way to play without Osimhen.”
Galatasaray now face important matches against Göztepe and Kocaelispor, before a crucial derby against Fenerbahçe later this month.
Any decision on Buruk could also affect Osimhen, who shares a close relationship with the coach. The Nigerian striker has previously spoken about how Buruk convinced him to join the club and supported him like a father.
On the pitch, their partnership has brought success. Osimhen helped the team win both the league and cup last season, and has scored important goals again this term.
However, the striker is currently out injured after suffering a fractured forearm. He has started light training and could return soon, possibly in time for the big derby.
With the title race getting tighter and key matches ahead, Galatasaray face a crucial period that could decide both their season and the future of their coach.
