“Shame on Those Calling for Icardi’s Exit” – Turkish Pundit Tuzemen Defends Galatasaray Star

Turkish football pundit Levent Tuzemen has hit out at critics calling for Mauro Icardi to leave Galatasaray, insisting that the Argentine forward deserves far more respect for his contributions to the club.

In a passionate statement on A Spor, Tuzemen reminded fans that Icardi has been the club’s lifeline in difficult moments, particularly during the period when stars like Victor Osimhen were unavailable.

“Shame on those who said Icardi should go. Who carried the team in the league when Osimhen wasn’t there?” Tuzemen said, as quoted by Habesarikirmizi.
“He has five goals! How did this Icardi hatred suddenly arise? Icardi is Galatasaray’s phenomenon. He has some physical shortcomings, but the doctor said he’ll recover after October.”

Tuzemen added that while injuries may have slowed Icardi down, his commitment and influence remain invaluable to the Turkish champions.

Icardi, who replaced Osimhen in the 86th minute during Galatasaray’s hard-fought 1-1 draw against Besiktas on Saturday, continues to be a central figure for the club both on and off the pitch.

Opinion: Fans Should Remember Loyalty Before Criticism

Levent Tuzemen’s defense of Icardi is not just emotional — it’s justified. In modern football, where players often jump ship at the first sign of trouble, Icardi’s loyalty to Galatasaray stands out.

When the team struggled, he carried them. When goals were scarce, he found a way to deliver. Now that form and fitness are temporarily shaky, it’s unfair for fans to turn their backs on him so quickly.

Football fans can be fickle — celebrating heroes one season and criticizing them the next. But as Tuzemen rightly pointed out, Icardi has earned the right to be supported through his recovery and resurgence.

If Galatasaray are to maintain their dominance this season, they’ll need more than Icardi’s goals — they’ll need his fighting spirit. And sometimes, respect is the best motivation a legend can get.