Galatasaray vs Kayserispor: Okan Buruk Faces Selection Dilemma Ahead of Super Lig Clash

The Super Lig defending champions enter the game at Kayseri Stadium with confidence after securing a perfect start to their 2025/26 campaign. They have recorded back-to-back 3-0 victories against Gaziantep and Fatih Karagumruk, signaling their intent to dominate the league once again. With six goals scored and zero conceded, Galatasaray already looks like strong favorites for the title.

Baris Yilmaz has been the key talking point for Galatasaray. The young forward has scored three goals in the opening two matches, quickly becoming the focal point of Okan Buruk’s attack. His energy, pressing, and goal-scoring ability have made him a strong contender to retain his place in the starting lineup for the Super Lig fixture.

However, the return of Mauro Icardi adds another layer of complexity to Buruk’s decision-making. Icardi, who has been sidelined due to long-term injury, announced his comeback with a goal against Fatih Karagumruk. The Argentine striker remains one of the most clinical finishers in Europe, making it difficult to leave him out of such a crucial Super Lig clash.

On the other hand, Victor Osimhen is also ready for action. The Nigerian international, who had an outstanding loan spell with Galatasaray last season, was pivotal in helping the team clinch the Super Lig title. Osimhen contributed 37 goals and eight assists across all competitions, proving to be a game-changer. His permanent transfer from Napoli this summer has only strengthened Galatasaray’s attacking options.

Leroy Sane, the high-profile signing from Bayern Munich, is another figure to watch. Although the German winger is yet to score for Galatasaray, his experience and creativity are expected to be vital in the Super Lig title race. Okan Buruk is likely to keep him in the starting XI, hoping that his breakthrough moment comes soon.

The Galatasaray defense also deserves credit, as they are one of only five sides yet to concede a goal this season. With six goals scored and none conceded, they stand out as both one of the sharpest attacking forces and the most resilient defenses in the Super Lig. These statistics cement their place as early pacesetters for a potential fourth successive title.

For their part, Kayserispor are determined to disrupt Galatasaray’s perfect start. Managed by Markus Gisdol, the team enters the clash with an unbeaten run at Kayseri Stadium, spanning nine matches. This run includes seven victories and two draws, providing them with the confidence needed to challenge the champions in this Super Lig fixture.

Miguel Cardoso, who scored Kayserispor’s opening goal of the season, will be the main threat alongside Aaron Opoku. Both attackers will play key roles in breaking down the solid Galatasaray defense. With their recent form, Kayserispor hopes to frustrate the visitors and prove they can stand toe-to-toe with the best in the Super Lig.

Their only league outing so far this season ended in a 1-1 draw against Istanbul Basaksehir, after their first fixture against Besiktas was postponed. This result has given them a steady, if unspectacular, start, but facing Galatasaray offers an opportunity to make a bold statement in the Super Lig title race.

Looking at head-to-head statistics, Galatasaray has enjoyed dominance over Kayserispor in recent years. The defending champions have beaten the Anatolian side in four of their last five meetings, including the last three consecutive encounters. This record will serve as a psychological boost heading into the Super Lig clash.

The focus keyword remains the same: Galatasaray’s attacking dilemma. With Baris Yilmaz in form, Victor Osimhen fully fit, and Mauro Icardi back, Buruk must make a bold choice. Whichever option he chooses, it will define the balance of Galatasaray’s attack not just for this game but potentially for the rest of the Super Lig campaign.

Beyond individual brilliance, the team’s overall structure will be tested. The ability of Galatasaray to maintain defensive solidity while maximizing their wealth of attacking talent will determine if they can continue their flawless run in the Super Lig.

Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating this match, not only for the tactical decisions of Okan Buruk but also for how Kayserispor responds. Can the home side extend their unbeaten home record, or will Galatasaray continue their dominance with another commanding performance?

Ultimately, this Super Lig clash is more than just another fixture — it represents a battle of depth, form, and ambition. With Victor Osimhen, Mauro Icardi, Baris Yilmaz, and Leroy Sane all pushing for starting roles, Galatasaray showcases the type of squad depth that makes champions. For Kayserispor, the challenge is to harness their home advantage and exploit any opening they find against the defending champions.

As kickoff approaches, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter  one that will highlight Galatasaray’s attacking dilemma, test their title credentials, and perhaps give Kayserispor the chance to shock the Super Lig. Whatever the outcome, Sunday’s fixture promises to be a defining moment in the early stages of the 2025/26 Turkish Super Lig season.