Barcelona manager Hansi Flick warns of Osimhen threat before Galatasaray Champions League clash

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has praised Victor Osimhen as a “fantastic striker” while warning his players they must be at their best against Galatasaray in Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League meeting.

The Nigeria international has quickly re-established his importance to the Turkish Super Lig champions after returning from injury. Osimhen has scored six goals and provided three assists in five league appearances this season.

He also made an immediate impact on his return, setting up a goal as Galatasaray beat Kasimpasa 3-1.

Flick spoke after Barcelona’s 3-0 victory over Getafe on Saturday, highlighting both the quality of the Turkish side and the difficult atmosphere his team will face at Rams Park.

“We’ll be playing against Galatasaray on Tuesday,” Flick said via Fotomac.

“We’ll be playing in the world’s loudest stadium. We need to prepare for that. This is the Champions League, it’s different. Every team in the Champions League is very good.”

The German manager said Barcelona could not afford to underestimate Galatasaray, who he believes possess a strong squad led by Osimhen.

“Galatasaray have a fantastic striker like Osimhen, they really have a great squad. We need to be ready for this match. We must play our best football against Galatasaray.”

Osimhen is expected to return to Galatasaray’s starting line-up for the match, having last begun a game in September’s 3-2 win over Istanbul Basaksehir.

The former African Footballer of the Year will be aiming to lead the Turkish champions to a positive result against Barcelona, which would strengthen their hopes of reaching the Champions League knockout phase.

Barcelona’s victory over Getafe came immediately before the trip to Turkey, where Flick’s side will face a Galatasaray team strengthened by Osimhen’s return. The striker’s scoring record and his assist on his comeback underline the role he has played in the Turkish club’s campaign.

Flick’s comments also reflected the challenge Barcelona expect in Istanbul, with the atmosphere at Rams Park forming part of Galatasaray’s advantage. He insisted his players must prepare for an encounter that will demand their best football.