Galatasaray are set to host Basaksehir in week 4 of the Trendyol Süper Lig with star signing Rafael Leao expected to make his debut. The match kicks off at 20:00 on Thursday, September 4th, with manager Okan Buruk's selection decisions drawing particular attention.
The Lions sit top of the league with 7 points from their first three matches. They have scored 9 goals while conceding 4, giving them a +5 goal difference. Victor Osimhen has been in sensational form, netting 5 goals in those opening three games. Roland Sallai, Davinson Sanchez, Yunus Akgun, and Gabriel Sara have each contributed one goal. Osimhen's tally extends to 17 goals in his last 15 league appearances. The team's next fixture is at home against Rizespor on December 6th, 2026, which you can follow on our fixtures page.
Which new signings could make their debut?
Rafael Leao joined from Milan for a fee of 38 million euros. The Portuguese star is in line to wear the Galatasaray shirt for the first time against Basaksehir if selected by Okan Buruk. Deniz Gul was also brought in from Porto for 10 million euros and is another candidate for a debut. French defender El Chadaille Bitshiabu is not expected to feature in this match. You can view the full squad on our squad page.
What is Okan Buruk's record against Basaksehir?
Since taking charge at the start of the 2022-2023 season, Okan Buruk has led Galatasaray to 8 consecutive league victories over Basaksehir. The yellow-reds have remained unbeaten against this opponent throughout his tenure. Buruk stated, "Cimbom 2022-2023 sezonunda Okan Buruk'un takımın başına geçmesiyle başlayan süreçte Başakşehir'i ligde üst üste 8 kez mağlup etmeyi başardı." This statistic gives the team a significant psychological edge heading into the clash.
How has Galatasaray performed against teams managed by Nuri Sahin?
Galatasaray also boast a strong record against teams managed by Nuri Sahin. Including his time at Antalyaspor, Galatasaray have won 4 and drawn 1 of their 5 meetings with Sahin's sides. Since Sahin became Basaksehir manager, Galatasaray have won both league encounters, keeping clean sheets in two matches while conceding just one goal overall. Check the current league table on our standings page.
How has Basaksehir started the season?
The visiting side Basaksehir have collected 4 points from their first three matches, placing them 9th in the league table. Their attacking output has been lower than Galatasaray's 9-goal haul. While Galatasaray have dominated recent meetings, Basaksehir will be aiming to break that streak. According to reports from Hurriyet Spor, Galatasaray's dominance over Basaksehir under Okan Buruk continues. For the latest injury updates, visit our injuries page.
The main intrigue surrounds whether Rafael Leao will start. Okan Buruk's decision will directly impact the balance of Galatasaray's attacking line. Deniz Gul is another player anticipated to get his first chance to play. Galatasaray's next Süper Lig fixture is scheduled for December 6th, 2026, at home against Rizespor.
