Guardiola praises Osimhen as ‘threat’ ahead of Man City test
Pep Guardiola has singled out Victor Osimhen as a major threat ahead of Manchester City’s decisive UEFA Champions League clash against Galatasaray at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday night.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Manchester City manager described the Super Eagles striker as a “top-class player”, warning his side to be fully focused if they are to secure automatic qualification for the round of 16.
“We will try to win tomorrow. Galatasaray are leading the Turkish league and all their players are exceptional,” Guardiola said.
“The quality they have – Osimhen is a top-class player. They link well with him. Leroy and the wingers are so quick.
“Gundo and Lemina are experienced players. They are one of the biggest clubs and they always have good players. We have to make an incredible effort with our fans.”
City go into the final group-phase fixture needing a win to guarantee a top-eight finish and avoid the playoff round.
Guardiola’s side sit 11th in the standings on 13 points, level with Paris Saint-Germain but behind on goal difference after seven matches.
Osimhen key to Galatasaray hopes
Galatasaray arrive in Manchester with their own objectives. The Turkish champions are 17th on the table, with three wins, three defeats and a draw, and require a positive result to ensure they remain inside the top-24 places and advance to the knockout playoffs.
Much of their attacking threat is expected to revolve around Osimhen, who has continued to attract attention with his pace, physicality and goal threat.
The Nigerian striker has already found the net against Premier League opposition in this season’s competition, scoring against Liverpool earlier in the group phase.
Galatasaray also boast several players familiar to City and English football fans, including former City duo Leroy Sané and Ilkay Gündogan, as well as midfielders Mario Lemina and Lucas Torreira.
City injury concerns
Manchester City will be stretched defensively for the encounter. New signing Marc Guéhi is ineligible for the Champions League at this stage, while Rodri is suspended following his red card against Bodo/Glimt.
Injuries have further reduced Guardiola’s options, with Rúben Dias, Joško Gvardiol, John Stones, Savinho and Oscar Bobb all ruled out.
Antoine Semenyo is also unavailable for European action until the knockout rounds.
