Istanbul’s next European night is already shaping the domestic one. Galatasaray welcome Barcelona to RAMS Park on Tuesday at 21:00 in the second round of the 2026-27 Champions League league phase, and Okan Buruk must first guide his side through Sunday’s 19:00 meeting with Kasimpasa while keeping an eye on the bigger test ahead.
The Turkish champions, winners of the Süper Lig in each of the past four seasons, have had a difficult start on two fronts. Their Champions League opening match ended in a 3-1 defeat away to Sporting in Lisbon, a result that has given the Barcelona fixture particular weight. A 4-0 loss at Trabzonspor in the sixth league round has also interrupted the usual rhythm, although Galatasaray remain second domestically, level with leaders Amed SK on 13 points.
There is, nevertheless, a formidable local record to defend in Istanbul. Galatasaray have not lost a home league match in 38 outings since Fenerbahçe won there on 19 May 2024. That sequence contains 30 victories and eight draws, and Kasimpasa arrive with a demanding task even against a side likely to be adjusted for Europe.
Rotation under the Istanbul lights
Buruk’s selection plans are complicated by suspension, meaning Spanish coach Ismael García will take responsibility on the touchline against Kasimpasa. The club’s priority is to reduce the strain on key players following the international break and before Barcelona’s visit.
Colombian centre-back Davinson Sánchez is among those expected to be considered for a rest, despite his wish to play. Uruguayan midfielder Lucas Torreira could also be held back. Lesley Ugochukwu is unavailable after being sent off in the defeat at Trabzonspor.
Several other first-team figures remain fitness concerns. Victor Osimhen, goalkeeper Günay Güvenç, Roland Sallai, Mario Lemina and Wilfried Singo are all being monitored over separate physical problems. There has been limited clarity around their availability, particularly in Osimhen’s case.
The Nigerian forward, one of Galatasaray’s principal scorers, suffered bleeding within a muscle group which required drainage. Medical staff have indicated that his recovery is progressing well and that he is much improved, but have stopped short of confirming when he will return. For a club balancing a protected home run, an unsettled league position and Barcelona on the horizon, the decision on Osimhen may define the tone of the weekend.
