Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk has acknowledged that the club’s historic investment in Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen is placing significant pressure on their financial flexibility and squad management.
To secure the in-demand striker, Galatasaray committed to an unprecedented package that could total up to €150 million, including transfer fees and wages. Buruk described the financial commitment as a “huge burden,” noting that such a figure is without precedent in the Turkish Super Lig. Prior to Osimhen’s arrival, no club in the league had ever spent more than €30 million on a single player.
Squad Depth Now Under Strain
The record-breaking deal has had direct consequences on the club’s depth, with Buruk admitting he has, at times, been forced to rely on academy players just to fill out the bench. Following Galatasaray’s defeat to Monaco, questions arose regarding possible January reinforcements, but Buruk pointed to strict financial limitations linked to the Osimhen transfer.
“There are no defenders left on the reserve bench. If someone got injured, there would be no solution,” he said, according to Sport News. “We are going through a difficult period, and we have not been able to get the desired results from some players.”
UEFA and TFF Budget Rules Add More Pressure
Buruk emphasized that restrictions imposed by both the Turkish Football Federation and UEFA have further complicated the club’s ability to strengthen the squad in the transfer market.
“There are salary budget restrictions from both the TFF and UEFA for transfers. We bought Osimhen for 75 million euros, and his salary is also a huge burden,” he explained.
The coach also referenced the arrival of key players such as Leroy Sané, İlkay Gündoğan, and Wilfried Singo, arguing that no one could have predicted the current challenges. Despite this, he accepted full responsibility:
“The responsibility is mine. We will make a correct plan in the winter transfer window.”
