Galatasaray boss Okan Buruk ‘not convinced’ by Lesley Ugochukwu transfer

Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk was reportedly not fully convinced by Lesley Ugochukwu’s summer transfer to the Turkish champions, according to Turkish pundit İbrahim Seten.

Ugochukwu joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan after an encouraging campaign with Burnley in the Premier League last season, despite the English club’s relegation to the Championship.

The 22-year-old midfielder made 35 league appearances for Burnley, scoring twice and providing three assists. His performances earned him a move to Istanbul, but his start to life at Galatasaray has been less productive.

Ugochukwu is yet to start a match for the Turkish champions since the beginning of the new campaign, raising questions about his position in Buruk’s plans.

Buruk preferred Lemina

Seten has now claimed that Ugochukwu was not one of Buruk’s preferred targets during the summer window, with the Galatasaray manager instead wanting to retain Gabon international Mario Lemina.

Speaking on the 343 Digital YouTube channel, Seten said Buruk had only given his full backing to one of the club’s summer targets.

“The management requested Lemina’s contract. Only Leao was requested by Okan Buruk. Ugochukwu wasn’t a priority either. So, except for Leao, the coach didn’t give 100% approval to any of the other transfers,” Seten said, via habersarikirmizi.

The comments suggest Ugochukwu’s arrival was driven largely by the club’s recruitment plans rather than being a direct request from Buruk.

Ugochukwu now faces a battle for trust

Galatasaray eventually completed the deal for Ugochukwu following lengthy negotiations with the midfielder during the summer transfer window.

His lack of starts, however, means he has yet to establish himself in Buruk’s midfield. The former Southampton player will now have to compete for opportunities and convince the manager that he can play a significant role in the team.

With domestic football set to resume after the international break, Ugochukwu will hope to use his next opportunity to change his situation.

His performances at Burnley demonstrated his ability to contribute at Premier League level, but translating that form to Galatasaray could prove crucial to earning Buruk’s confidence and securing a more prominent role in Istanbul.