02.01.2026 14:54
A ceremony was held at RAMS Park for the late former Galatasaray football player and sports writer Gökmen Özdenak, attended by club president Dursun Özbek, his family, and fans. Özbek emphasized Özdenak's contributions to Turkish football.
A ceremony was held for the late former national football player and sports writer of Galatasaray, Gökmen Özdenak.
"GÖKMEN WILL HAVE A VERY SPECIAL PAGE" In his speech at the ceremony, Dursun Özbek stated that Gökmen Özdenak had made great contributions to Galatasaray, saying, "Gökmen was a very important football player who left a mark on Turkish football, served the national team multiple times, and became a symbol of Galatasaray. He came to Galatasaray Club in his twenties and made significant contributions to Galatasaray with the services he provided there. While the history of Galatasaray is being written, there will be a very special page for Gökmen. With his personality, stance, and the services he provided, he will take his place there. While Gökmen was a commentator on television, we were always in contact during my presidency. After matches or events concerning Galatasaray, he would call me and share his thoughts with me. I can comfortably say that he was a very important Galatasaray fan who supported me during my presidency. His passing has brought deep sorrow to all of us. I pray for God's mercy on him, may his place be paradise." he said.
"MY HEART IS SHATTERED" The deceased's brother, Yasin Özdenak, stated that it was a very difficult day for him, saying, "We spent many good and bad days together. Today we gathered here for my dear brother Gökmen. My heart is shattered. I still can't believe he is gone. I will cherish every moment I shared with him forever. His jokes, the hand on my shoulder, his affection, all remain in my mind and heart. He was not just a brother, but also a very good father, a very good husband, and a very good grandfather. He was a part of our lives. The beautiful light he brought into our lives will never fade. We will carry on the legacy of love and goodwill he left us. I know he is watching us in peace. I am sure he is proud. We love you so very much, my dear brother. May we all find comfort." he expressed.
The deceased's daughter, Selin Özdenak Görücüoğlu, expressed that her father left a mark on Turkish football, saying, "He was my first love, my closest friend, and my refuge. Being his daughter is a great fortune and a pride I will carry for a lifetime. The love he taught me and left in my heart is immeasurable. I am so glad to be your daughter. I am so glad you are Alp's grandfather. You are always with me in my heart and memories, my dear dad. I would like to thank Mr. Dursun Özbek, our president, and everyone who contributed. I extend my condolences to the entire Galatasaray community and its fans." she stated. Gökmen Özdenak's funeral will be buried in Kilyos Cemetery after the funeral prayer to be held at Levent Barbaros Hayrettin Paşa Mosque at noon.