Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has explained his team selection for their Süper Lig match against Göztepe.
Speaking before the match, Buruk discussed the reasons behind several changes to his starting eleven.
Buruk on Player Fitness and Tactics
Buruk explained the absence of Yunus Akgün from the starting lineup. Yunus had been suffering with pain and was unable to complete the final training session.
Buruk also mentioned that Lucas Torreira had been playing with pain in the previous match. Additionally, Sérgio Oliveira had a slight injury, participating in only part of yesterday’s training session, but was included in the squad.
Regarding Léo Dubois’s omission, Buruk highlighted the expected physicality of the Göztepe team. He acknowledged Dubois’s commitment and desire to play, but felt a more robust approach was needed for this particular match.
Remembering Mircea Lucescu
Buruk began by paying his respects to Mircea Lucescu, who has passed away. He described Lucescu as a valuable and important figure in world football.
Buruk recalled working with Lucescu during his first season. He noted Lucescu’s deep connection to football. “Fate brought him to his final match in Turkey,” Buruk said, offering his condolences.
Why Galatasaray Lost to Trabzonspor
Buruk addressed the factors that contributed to his team’s defeat against Trabzonspor. He said that not spreading out enough on the pitch when in possession and a lack of confidence led to the poor result. He stressed the importance of avoiding losing possession.
Buruk pointed out that his side conceded too many transitions against Trabzonspor. He noted that Göztepe are also strong in transitional play, favouring a direct style. He said that Galatasaray must prevent this by maintaining better possession, which he believes will create chances.
Buruk stated that Barış Alper Yılmaz’s speed and mobility are important. He noted a possible change in Göztepe’s tactics, saying they may press high, while they defended in their own half last week. He added that they will see how the game develops.
Galatasaray are aiming for a victory in this important match, having played on Saturday and needing to recover quickly.