Galatasaray consider dumping star forward with ‘too many’ scandals

Argentine forward Mauro Icardi’s time at Galatasaray appears to be on shaky ground as the Turkish club reportedly grows weary of his off-field controversies.

With his contract nearing its expiration, the club may decide to part ways, signalling the end of a turbulent chapter in Icardi’s career.

Galatasaray’s management is reportedly reconsidering Icardi’s contract renewal due to multiple off-field issues.

These include unpaid alimony spanning eight months and his decision to undergo knee surgery and rehabilitation in Argentina without prior approval from the club.

The club’s dissatisfaction comes after a €10 million investment in Icardi’s transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, and the controversies surrounding the forward have tested the patience of Galatasaray officials, leading them to explore alternatives.

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, currently on loan from Napoli, has emerged as a potential long-term replacement.

Osimhen has made an immediate impact in the Turkish league, becoming Galatasaray’s top scorer and a fan favourite.

Adding to Icardi’s woes are his fraught personal relationships and public legal battles with his estranged wife Wanda Nara.

He faces accusations of parental alienation and was recently seen undergoing psychological evaluations as part of their ongoing divorce proceedings.

Icardi’s strained family ties have also come under scrutiny. His sister, Ivana, revealed that Mauro’s early departure from home and their parents’ separation deeply affected his ability to maintain relationships.

To compound matters, Icardi sparked controversy on social media by likening his struggles to those of actor Johnny Depp, a comparison criticised as an attempt to gain sympathy amid his personal and professional turmoil.

With his Galatasaray future hanging in the balance and ongoing personal and legal troubles, Icardi faces significant challenges in the coming months.