Mustafa Denizli Slams Victor Osimhen After Quiet Display in Galatasaray’s Defeat to Monaco
HT Spor commentator Mustafa Denizli has strongly criticised Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen after the Nigerian forward delivered one of his quietest performances in the club’s 1–0 loss to Monaco in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday night.
Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray with huge expectations, failed to make any real impact as the Turkish giants struggled to break down a disciplined Monaco side in France.
Reflecting on the match, Denizli argued that Galatasaray’s defeat stemmed largely from their inability to win loose, deflected balls — an area where he believes the team, including Osimhen, fell short.
“The primary reason for losing this match was that Monaco won the deflected second balls,” Denizli said via Habersarikirmizi.
“I don’t know if anyone saw Osimhen in this match. He played one of his most passive games since joining Galatasaray.”
He added that if Osimhen had matched the tempo and intensity of teammates Barış Alper Yılmaz and Leroy Sané in the first half, the outcome might have been different.
Opinion: Criticism or Pressure? Osimhen’s Slow Start Calls for Patience
While Denizli’s criticism may resonate with frustrated fans, it raises a bigger question: Are expectations on Osimhen becoming unrealistic?
The Nigerian striker has always been a high-energy, high-impact forward, but even elite players have off days — especially in a new league, new system, and new style of play. Galatasaray rely heavily on transition and intensity, areas where understanding with teammates is crucial.
It’s fair to say Osimhen was not at his best, but writing him off based on one lacklustre performance feels too harsh. Big strikers thrive when the entire team functions well: winning duels, controlling midfield, supplying quality passes, and pressing as a unit. Galatasaray failed in several of these areas against Monaco — not just Osimhen.
If the club and fans show patience, Osimhen could still become the decisive star everyone expects. After all, his track record speaks louder than one quiet night in France.
