‘It makes a huge difference’ - Ex-Fenerbahce star claims without Osimhen, Galatasaray is nothing

Osimhen, who recently returned from international duty with Nigeria's Super Eagles, was rested by Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk for the crucial match. 

The decision was reportedly made to keep the forward fresh for the club's upcoming UEFA Champions League fixture against Bodo/Glimt.

However, Galatasaray secured a narrow 2-1 victory in the derby, with Osimhen not starting, but the team still struggled in attack. 

Speaking on TRT Spor, Yagcioglu argued that starting the club's record signing would have given Galatasaray a significant edge.

"Osimhen's absence is a real disadvantage. It makes a huge difference in the team," Yagcioglu stated. 

"If Osimhen had been there, either in the moments when Basaksehir was dominating possession or if he had come on earlier, the match would have been very different."

Buruk introduced Osimhen in the second half as part of a quadruple substitution, with the Nigerian replacing Mauro Icardi. 

With just seven minutes remaining, Osimhen nearly made his mark, but his powerful shot struck the woodwork.

The Nigerian international has scored three goals in just seven games in all competitions for Galatasaray this season.