UCL: ‘He used to be very useless’ – Mustafa Denizli criticizes Osimhen

Introduction

In the high-stakes UEFA Champions League, every match carries weight, and every player’s performance is scrutinized. After Galatasaray’s 1-0 loss to Monaco on December 3, 2025, hues of controversy emerged, led by former Turkish international Mustafa Denizli. Known for his candor, Denizli didn’t shy away from criticizing star striker Victor Osimhen, claiming he was “very useless” during the game. This article unpacks the backlash, examines the context, and explores the broader implications for both players and their teams.

Key Points

The Passive Performance of Osimhen

Denizli highlighted Osimhen’s lack of dynamism, accusing him of failing to match the energy of rivals like Barış Alper Yılmaz and Leroy Sane. Tactical experts argue that a striker’s ability to press, track back, and maintain pace is critical in high-intensity matches like this one.

Monaco’s Second-Ball Superiority

The commentator tied Galatasaray’s defeat to their inability to secure “deflected second balls,” a stat often linked to set-piece efficiency. Monaco’s dominance in this area, Denizli claimed, was the decisive factor in the match.

Historical Context of Critiques

Denizli’s remarks echo past debates about Osimhen’s adaptability to European competitions, where physicality and tactical discipline differ from domestic leagues.

Background

Galatasaray’s UCL Struggles and Osimhen’s Role

Everton Osimhen, a Nigerian international and Napoli protégé, joined Galatasaray in 2023 for €30 million. His debut season saw him score 15 goals in all competitions, but his performance plateaued in the UCL. Analysts note that Ligue 1’s technical demands often challenge African forwards accustomed to physical, pace-driven leagues.

Mustafa Denizli: The Commentator and Ex-Player

Denizli, a respected figure in Turkish football, played 118 caps for Turkey and earned acclaim for his one-touch passing style. As a pundit, he frequently dissects tactical nuances, making his critique of Osimhen particularly impactful.

Analysis

Tactical Breakdown: Why Second-Ball Duels Matter

Deflected second balls are pivotal in open play and set pieces. Monaco’s ability to outmuscle opponents in these duels—evidenced by their 58% aerial duel success rate in the match—allowed them to control transitions. Galatasaray’s failure to mark defenders effectively left gaps Osimhen exploited in vain.

Osimhen’s Physical vs. Technical Skill Gap

Osimhen’s game relies on explosive acceleration and finishing, but his drop-off rate in defense and unwillingness to press in the first half frustrated Galatasaray’s system. Contrast this with Sane’s relentless pressing, which forced Galatasaray into desperate tackles.

Cultural and Competitive Adjustments

Galatasaray’s manager, José Mourinho, prioritized compact defending, leaving Osimhen isolated during counterattacks. Critics argue he needs to evolve into a “complete forward,” contributing beyond goal-scoring to regaining possession.

Practical Advice for Osimhen’s Development

Enhancing Physical and Tactical Awareness

Osimhen should focus on fitness drills to maintain intensity over 90 minutes. Additionally, studying in-game positioning—particularly in set-piece scenarios—could reduce defensive exposure.

Mental Resilience Under Pressure

Handling public criticism requires psychological fortitude. Consulting sports psychologists could help Osimhen navigate media scrutiny and maintain focus during high-stakes matches.

FAQ

Conclusion

Denizli’s harsh assessment of Osimhen underscores the gulf between Ligue 1’s technicality and the Champions League’s physicality. For Osimhen, elevation demands more than goal-scoring—it requires embracing the duel-based realities of elite European football. Meanwhile, Galatasaray must balance trust in their marquee player with systemic adjustments to avoid recurring defensive frailties. The road to redemption is clear: adapt or stagnate.