Former Besiktas player, Sinan Engin has raised doubts about Mauro Icardi’s effectiveness following Galatasaray’s 2-1 defeat to Trabzonspor on Saturday, while commending Paul Onuachu’s influence in the match.
The Yellow-Reds, who played without the injured Nigerian forward, Victor Osimhen, suffered a loss at Papara Park, further emphasizing his significance to the squad.
Onuachu showcased an impressive performance, scoring for Trabzonspor alongside compatriot Chibuike Nwaiwu, while Wilfried Singo scored the only goal for Galatasaray.
This outcome has extended a troubling trend for the Istanbul giants, who have found it challenging to achieve consistency without Osimhen spearheading the attack.
During a discussion on the Asist Analiz YouTube channel, Engin was forthright in his critique of Icardi’s performance, questioning the Argentine’s impact in crucial matches.
He dismissed any justifications regarding a lack of service, asserting that top-tier strikers must discover ways to influence games regardless of the situation.
“With Icardi, things are unlikely to succeed. Galatasaray supporters need to come to terms with reality. I am also a fan of Icardi, but there is this ongoing joke about ‘the ball isn’t getting to me’ in a high-level match,” he stated via habersarikirmizi.
“They require defenders who are willing to fight and put in the effort,” he said.
By highlighting Onuachu’s performance as a standard, Engin posed a rhetorical question regarding the Nigerian’s effectiveness, contrasting it with Icardi’s difficulties.
He further emphasized Osimhen’s importance, suggesting that if Galatasaray secures the league title, the team should express their gratitude to the Nigerian forward for his contributions.
“How does Onuachu manage it? If Galatasaray emerges as champions at the end of the season, the team should unite and present Osimhen with a significant gift. Galatasaray without Osimhen is merely an average team,” he concluded.