01.12.2025 19:40
Galatasaray's head coach Okan Buruk made statements before the Fenerbahçe derby. Evaluating the rival's recent rise in performance and his own team's busy schedule, Buruk also warned the referee of the match, saying, "We believe that the referee has analyzed both teams and has done his homework. We expect a referee who will show cards and demonstrate authority, regardless of who creates the tension."
Galatasaray Coach Okan Buruk made striking statements before the Fenerbahçe derby.
''WE MUST PLAY OUR OWN GAME''
Evaluating the match, Okan Buruk said, "This is a match that the whole of Turkey is ready to hold its breath and watch. A great struggle between the two teams in recent years. This year, including Trabzonspor. Beşiktaş is always trying to catch up, and so is Samsunspor... Looking specifically at today, we are a team playing away. We must stay calm and play our own game. In recent years, when we stayed calm, we got the results. We are ready for that today."
''NOT FULLY READY''
Continuing his words, the successful coach stated, "Our opponent has a rising trend in their recent matches. Even if they fell behind in score, they won. They are more motivated. We also have a more intense schedule with the Champions League. Injuries, suspensions... Our squad size has decreased a bit due to the TFF's penalties, but we have players we brought here today. Osimhen and Lemina are in the starting eleven, and we included Yunus in the squad. We brought Kaan, who can play, but he is not fully ready. We brought him to be with the team. Besides that, we had thoughts about center-back and full-back preferences. The reason we preferred Lemina is that he is physically suited to play as a center-back."
''IMPORTANT FROM A PSYCHOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE''
"We also tried Lemina in midfield. Our primary thought was midfield, but he had difficulties in transitions and returns. With his feedback, we evaluated him as a center-back," said Okan Buruk, adding, "As a team, we are ready. Osimhen's return is psychological and very important for such away matches. Hopefully, it will be a beautiful and quality match."
''WE EXPECT A REFEREE WHO WILL SHOW CARDS''
Warning the referee of the match, Okan Buruk stated, "We believe that the referee has analyzed both teams and studied their lessons. We expect a referee who will show cards to whoever creates tension and will show a strong stance."