Galatasaray vice president Metin Öztürk made strong statements following his team's 3-2 away defeat to Başakşehir in the 4th week of the Trendyol Süper Lig. Öztürk claimed the season will be difficult and that Galatasaray's championship bid will be deliberately obstructed.
Speaking to reporters after the match, as reported by Hürriyet Spor, Öztürk said they were happy with the three points. He noted the league is still in its early stages and their leadership continues. He also mentioned an important European test ahead. Galatasaray maintains its top position in the league, having collected 7 points from 3 matches. The team's status on the standings page shows 9 goals scored and 4 conceded for a +5 goal difference.
Why Are The Refereeing Decisions Controversial?
Metin Öztürk said they have felt for the past 2-3 weeks that the season will be very tough. He recalled a referee in a preparation match showing their coach a red card for no reason. He mentioned that an official from a rival club recently passed through the federation, and he himself received a 15-day ban from refereeing duties followed by a 2.5 million lira fine. This fine was later withdrawn with an apology, and he expressed hope the same would happen for him.
Öztürk criticized referee Kadir Sağlam, questioning whether he should be called a referee. He referenced a goal by Osimhen awarded via VAR, saying the decision was based on the line, meaning the center of the line. He questioned what the existence of VAR means in such cases, stating that the referee should see and decide on penalties.
Which Specific Decisions Did Galatasaray Protest?
Öztürk called one penalty decision laughable. He claimed that if such penalties continue, every match would have 8 penalties. He said a Galatasaray goal was disallowed due to an offside call, alleging the offside line was drawn from the wrong player. He called it a shame for the effort and investment.
He argued that the central referee and assistant referee do not understand each other. He mentioned a foul 3 meters in front of the assistant referee that is given everywhere in the world. One referee gave the foul, the other did not, and it doesn't matter, he said. One referee does not see the foul, the other does not accept the first's decision.
What Is Expected For The Rest Of The Season?
Metin Öztürk stated, "It is clear that Galatasaray's championship will be attempted to be blocked." Despite this, he said Galatasaray will still win the championship with their sweat, fans, management, and players. He also criticized the Turkish Football Federation's assignment of foreign VAR referees. He said a foreign VAR official had recently arrived and questioned who the federation sends to VAR when foreign officials come, claiming they send those who do not perform well in their own leagues.
Galatasaray continues its work to maintain its league position. The players listed on the team's squad page are preparing for the challenging period ahead. The next fixture is at home against Rizespor, who are 7th in the table, on 2026-12-06. This match holds a significant place in the team's fixtures schedule.
