Galatasaray Missing Key Players
Galatasaray announced their squad for the upcoming Alanyaspor match, notably missing star players Uğurcan Çakır, Davinson Sánchez, Victor Osimhen, Mario Lemina, and Mauro Icardi. The absences could significantly impact their Turkish Süper Lig campaign.
The most significant long-term absentee is star striker Mauro Icardi, who is expected to miss the entire 2024-25 season. He suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament and damaged meniscus in his right knee during a Europa League match against Tottenham in November 2024. Goalkeeper Uğurcan Çakır is sidelined with a muscle injury to his left hip area, while defender Davinson Sánchez has been recently dealing with the aftermath of a head injury sustained in March 2025. The midfield will be without the presence of Mario Lemina, who is serving a suspension. His ban is reportedly linked to a disciplinary action from the Turkish Football Federation for a social media post following a match against Fenerbahçe in January 2026. Compounding the attack's problems is the absence of Victor Osimhen, the club's record signing at €75 million. His unavailability comes as speculation continues to link the Nigerian striker with a move to major European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain. These roster depletions come at a critical time for Galatasaray as they sit atop the Süper Lig standings with 58 points. The club's depth will be severely tested as they aim to defend their position at the top of the table. Galatasaray defeated Alanyaspor 3-1 in a league match as recently as February 28, 2026, with Victor Osimhen scoring one of the goals. [cite: 6,
