Rafael Leao made his first appearance in front of Galatasaray fans at Ali Sami Yen Stadium, joining the on-pitch celebrations after a 3-2 Super Lig win over Göztepe. The Portuguese star shared an emotional embrace with Victor Osimhen, marking a symbolic start to his career with the Turkish champions. The moment was captured by beIN Sports.
Leao's appearance came hot on the heels of his official transfer from AC Milan for a reported fee of €45 million. The winger had posted an emotional farewell to Milan fans on Saturday, stating, "It's a difficult time. I've said goodbye to my team-mates after seven years." He added, "My love for Milan will never end; even from afar, I'll always be watching them." Milan, without Leao, secured a 2-0 Serie A win over Venezia at San Siro.
What happened in the match?
Galatasaray faced a tough test in their third league match of the season. Visitors Göztepe took an early lead through Novatus Miroshi in the 16th minute. The home side equalized in the 33rd minute when the ball deflected off Davinson Sánchez and into the net. Starting the second half stronger, Galatasaray went ahead 2-1 thanks to Gabriel Sara's goal ten minutes after the break. Victor Osimhen then won and converted a penalty to give his team a two-goal cushion. Göztepe pulled one back through Juan Santos but couldn't prevent a Galatasaray victory. Osimhen had a second goal ruled out for a tight offside call.
With this win, Galatasaray maintains its position at the top of the Super Lig standings with 7 points. The team has a record of two wins and one draw (WWD) from three matches, scoring 9 goals and conceding 4. Their +5 goal difference can be seen on our standings page. This performance marks a strong, ambitious start to the campaign.
When will Leao be available for selection?
A key question is when Rafael Leao will make his official debut for Galatasaray. The Portuguese forward is currently listed on the injuries page alongside G. Guvenc. The technical staff is awaiting the completion of his physical preparation process, which is being managed carefully within the team's busy schedule.
The team's next league fixture is a home match against 7th-placed Rizespor on December 6, 2026. Details of this crucial encounter can be found on our fixtures page. Potential lineup changes ahead of this match are generating excitement among supporters.
How is the new signing integrating with the squad?
Leao's post-match pitch invasion and handshakes with teammates were seen as the first steps in his integration process. The warm embrace with potential strike partner Victor Osimhen quickly spread across social media. The synergy this duo could create in the attack is eagerly anticipated by fans and pundits alike. Osimhen demonstrated his current form in the Göztepe match by scoring one goal and winning a penalty.
Leao indicated he was opening a new chapter after his seven-year stint at Milan, stating, "there are times when you have to make a decision and choose a different path." He is planned to be a major option on the left wing within Galatasaray's current squad structure. The team's next home game is against Rizespor on December 6th.
