Galatasaray assistant coach Irfan Saraloglu has explained why Victor Osimhen was carefully managed on his return from injury, with the Nigerian striker providing an assist in Friday’s 3-1 victory over Kasımpasa, Footynaija.com reports.
Osimhen came off the bench in the 77th minute at RAMS Park, making his first appearance since suffering a groin injury in September.
The Super Eagles striker made an immediate contribution, setting up Mario Lemina for Galatasaray’s third goal deep into stoppage time as the Turkish champions secured victory despite playing with 10 men following Lucas Torreira’s dismissal.
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However, Saraloglu revealed that the club had to manage Osimhen’s involvement carefully as he worked his way back to full fitness.
“Osimhen just came back from injury, we had to protect him,” the Galatasaray assistant coach said after the game.
“We had to protect the players returning from national team duty. Our squad depth is good. It’s enough for the championship, but we need to use it sparingly and correctly. We have to spread the player planning over the minutes.”
Osimhen’s return provides a timely boost for Galatasaray after he missed several matches during his recovery, with the striker having been in the treatment room since September 4.
His brief appearance against Kasımpasa also offered a reminder of his importance to the team, as he helped create the late goal that sealed all three points.
Galatasaray had taken the lead through Abdulkerim Bardakcı before Kasımpasa equalised after Torreira’s red card. Barıs Alper Yılmaz restored the hosts’ advantage in the 90th minute, before Osimhen teed up Lemina to complete the scoring.
With a Champions League meeting against Barcelona approaching, Saraloglu’s comments suggest Galatasaray are keen to bring Osimhen back gradually rather than risk aggravating his injury.
The Nigerian will now hope to build on his encouraging comeback and regain full match fitness as Galatasaray prepare for a demanding run of fixtures in the coming weeks.
