Explained: Why Victor Osimhen was not happy with Galatasaray teammates during Hatayspor draw

Former Galatasaray player Gokmen Ozdenek has defended Victor Osimhen after the Nigerian striker appeared frustrated with his teammates following a disappointing 1-1 draw against relegation-threatened Hatayspor.

Osimhen, who had an excellent start to his time at Galatasaray, has seen his team’s lead at the top of the league shrink to just six points, with Fenerbahce closing in.

Although Osimhen has scored five goals in the eight Super Lig matches since the last international break, only one of those goals has been from open play, with the other four coming from penalties. This has raised concerns about his form in front of goal.

Ozdenek explained that Osimhen’s frustration stems from Galatasaray’s lack of support for him, particularly from the creative players. He believes that while Icardi works well with his teammates, other wingers and full-backs should be feeding Osimhen more.

“Galatasaray cannot send the balls they want to Osimhen,” Ozdenek said. “Icardi plays more with his teammates, but the other wingers and full-backs should be looking for Osimhen. I see that he is starting to get angry, and he is a bit right.”

Ozdenek also pointed out that the match against Hatayspor could have easily ended 7-0 or 8-0, but Galatasaray failed to take their chances, reflecting the unpredictability of football. Despite the disappointing result, Osimhen and Galatasaray remain at the top of the table