Turkish football pundit Levent Tuzemen has strongly criticised those calling for Mauro Icardi to leave Galatasaray, saying the striker deserves more respect for his contributions to the team.
Speaking to A Spor, Tuzemen expressed his anger at fans and critics who have questioned Icardi’s place in the squad, especially now that Victor Osimhen has returned from injury.
“Shame on those who said Icardi should go,” Tuzemen said. “Who carried the team in the league when Osimhen wasn’t there?”
Icardi has scored five goals this season and, according to Tuzemen, played a vital role during Osimhen’s absence. He questioned the sudden criticism directed at the Argentine striker, suggesting it was unfair and unfounded.
“Icardi is a Galatasaray icon,” he continued. “Yes, he has some physical issues at the moment, but the doctors have said he’ll be fully fit after October.”
Tuzemen added that Icardi has been loyal to the club and always given his best since arriving in Istanbul. “Even when Osimhen was out, Icardi stepped up. He’s always been there for Galatasaray.”
Icardi came off the bench in the 86th minute during Galatasaray’s 1-1 draw with Besiktas on Saturday, as the team continues to manage injuries and squad rotation in a busy season.