Galatasaray have omitted Victor Osimhen from their squad for the Ziraat Turkish Cup Group A fixture against Alanyaspor as they continue to manage a demanding run of fixtures.

Already through to the next round, the Istanbul giants are aiming to complete a perfect four-game run in the group stage, having won their previous three matches. However, the club confirmed that Osimhen and several other key players have been granted “active rest” ahead of a crucial period in the season.

The decision comes just days after the Nigerian striker delivered an impressive performance in Galatasaray’s 3-1 Süper Lig victory over Alanyaspor, scoring a goal and providing an assist.

Galatasaray are currently juggling a tight domestic title race in the Süper Lig with the demands of European competition in the UEFA Champions League. They are scheduled to play six matches within 19 days, including a two-legged Champions League round of 16 encounter against Liverpool F.C..

The Turkish champions are chasing a fourth consecutive league title and recently secured progression to the Champions League round of 16 following a dramatic tie against Juventus F.C..

After Saturday’s victory, Osimhen urged his teammates to remain focused during what he described as a decisive stretch of the campaign.

“The Beşiktaş match is a critical one,” Osimhen told the club’s official website, referring to their upcoming derby against Beşiktaş J.K..

“We’re taking it one match at a time. Of course, it will be a big match. A very high-quality team awaits us, but we also have a very high-quality team. We’ll go there for three points. It won’t be easy. First the Beşiktaş match, then Liverpool—but let’s not forget we also have a cup match against the team we just played. There are many more matches ahead of us until the end of the season.”

The derby could have significant implications in the title race, especially with challengers Fenerbahçe S.K. and Trabzonspor closely monitoring any potential slip-ups.

Following their domestic fixtures, Galatasaray will host Liverpool before travelling to Anfield for the decisive return leg, as they seek to maintain momentum on all fronts.