The Osimhen Question: Galatasaray fans frustrated by Eagles striker's bench role in crucial win

Despite a vital win over Basaksehir to maintain their title charge, supporters took to social media to question why in-form Victor Osimhen was limited to a 16-minute cameo, reigniting the debate over manager Okan Buruk's striking rotation.

Nigerian international Osimhen only featured for a brief 16-minute spell in Galatasaray's gritty 2-1 away victory against Basaksehir on Saturday night, a result that kept the Istanbul giants firmly on track for a Turkish Super Lig title defence.

Osimhen, who was substituted on for star striker Mauro Icardi in the 74th minute, has now only scored two Super Lig goals this season, a quieter return that has failed to quell a growing chorus of frustration from the Cimbom faithful demanding his inclusion in the starting XI.

The decision by coach Buruk to start the match with Mauro Icardi, a player who has netted five goals in the league this term and started seven matches, while leaving the explosive Nigerian on the bench, immediately sparked debate online.

The fans' reaction was swift and pointed, with many questioning the logic behind limiting Osimhen’s minutes, particularly following his impressive performances for the Super Eagles during the recent international break.

"Unless he’s injured, Osimhen needs to start in the first 11 now. We need to get the guy in form; we saw how much impact he has even when he comes on as a substitute," one fan posted.

Another frustrated supporter simply asked: “Why’s Victor Osimhen benched?”

A third comment highlighted the perceived preference for established stars over young talent: "You don't need to ask why the youngsters are fleeing abroad... There are 2 heavyweights playing at stopper and 2 young sharpshooters like arrows on the bench."

Buruk's current strategy appears to be a delicate balancing act between the two star centre-forwards.

While Osimhen, with his raw pace and physicality, offers a different dimension to the attack, his limited goal return of two goals in six Super Lig appearances contrasts with his last full season's haul of 26 league goals.

Icardi has been highly effective, averaging 1.41 goals per 90 minutes this season. The debate centres on whether the team's momentum, secured by Leroy Sané's brace in this latest win, justifies a bench role for someone of Osimhen’s immense talent.

Adding pressure is the form of Trabzonspor's Nigerian forward, Paul Onuachu, who has already notched seven league goals, five more than his compatriot, providing a stark contrast in domestic output.

Galatasaray sit top of the table with this victory, demonstrating their ability to win tight matches even when their star power is rationed. But Onuachu-led Trabzonspor is piling on the pressure at the moment.

However, the fans’ outcry shows they believe the team performs best with Osimhen leading the line or that he needs a run of games to return to his prolific best.

Buruk must soon decide whether to persist with the proven goal-per-game record of Icardi or unleash the full potential of Osimhen to secure the domestic title and navigate a competitive European schedule.

What is your take? Should Osimhen start Galatasaray's next match, or is Buruk making the right call? Join the discussion!