Buruk Excited by Osimhen/Icardi Partnership Ahead of Juventus Clash

Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has expressed his delight at the blossoming partnership between Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi after the pair combined to devastating effect in Friday’s 5-1 victory over Eyupspor in the Turkish Super Lig.

Icardi struck a hat-trick while Osimhen provided two assists, with Buruk deploying both forwards together in a 4-4-2 formation.

The tactical shift allowed the Nigerian and Argentine to link up in attack, a move that has sparked speculation they will start side by side when Juventus visit Istanbul on Tuesday for the first leg of their UEFA Champions League playoff tie.

Buruk praised the duo’s impact, telling Galatasaray’s official website: ‘Icardi’s three goals, Osimhen’s two assists… there are many positive things. People thought Osimhen and Icardi couldn’t play together, but we tried it and got positive results.’

The Gala boss also highlighted the contributions of returning players such as Sacha Boey and Wilfried Singo, while noting the atmosphere created by the fans. Looking ahead to Juventus, Buruk acknowledged the challenge but insisted his side are ready.

‘A very different match and a very strong opponent awaits us. Their build-up play can change from time to time. They have very good wing players, Kenan Yıldız is very valuable. It’s a two-legged match and we will think like that. Our goal will be to beat Juventus,’ he said.

Osimhen has already scored six goals in this season’s Champions League, trailing only Kylian Mbappé (13), Harry Kane (8), and Erling Haaland (7).

His form, combined with Icardi’s finishing, gives Galatasaray renewed confidence as they prepare for one of their toughest tests of the campaign.