Galatasaray assistant coach Ismael Garcia says Victor Osimhen is fit and ideally suited to trouble Barcelona’s high defensive line in Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League meeting.
The Nigeria international is expected to lead the Turkish side’s attack after returning from an injury that had kept him out of action. Osimhen made his comeback at the weekend, giving Galatasaray a timely boost before their European clash with Hansi Flick’s team.
Garcia believes the 26-year-old’s pace, movement and ability to run in behind defenders could expose the risks in Barcelona’s aggressive defensive approach.
Speaking to Diario Sport, in comments quoted by Barca Blaugranes, Garcia confirmed that the former Napoli striker is available for selection.
“Yes, yes. I’m not going to tell you cliches or lies: he’s ready to play and he’s a completely differential player for us. Obviously, he’s there to play,” Garcia said.
“And I’ll tell you more: the top players do well in every game, but perhaps, because of Barcelona’s way of defending, so aggressive and with the defensive line in the middle of the field, Osimhen is the striker who, due to his characteristics, is perfect against that type of defense.
“Beyond the fact that he is an extraordinary striker, we hope that he can do a lot of damage to Barcelona with the way he plays.”
Barcelona’s system under Flick has been characterised by a high defensive line, with the back four often positioned well inside the opposition half as the Catalan club seek to maintain pressure.
That approach can leave space behind the defence, and Garcia said Osimhen’s particular qualities make him a natural threat against it. The Galatasaray coach also stressed that the striker’s importance extends beyond the tactical match-up, describing him as an “extraordinary striker”.
Osimhen’s return comes as Galatasaray prepare to face the Spanish champions in strong domestic form. Barcelona enter the Champions League fixture after a comfortable 3-0 victory over Getafe in La Liga.
Galatasaray also preserved their position at the top of the Turkish Super Lig with a 3-1 win against Kasimpasa.
The Turkish champions will now hope Osimhen can make an immediate impact after his return and provide the decisive contribution against what the source describes as one of Europe’s most in-form teams.