Lesley Ugochukwu earns Okan Buruk praise despite Galatasaray pre-season loss to Monza

Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk hailed Lesley Ugochukwu’s calm and controlled midfield display after the new signing impressed in a 2-0 pre-season defeat by Monza on Friday evening.

The French midfielder, on loan from Burnley, started for the Turkish champions and delivered a composed performance at the heart of the side, even as Galatasaray were beaten by the Serie A club.

Buruk highlighted Ugochukwu’s security in possession and his ability to move the ball through midfield, stressing that the 22-year-old brought a different profile to his options in the centre of the pitch.

“I don’t really recall Lesley losing possession often,” Buruk told Le Marca Sports. “Lesley and Renato are players capable of receiving the ball and driving forward.

“They possess these qualities, unlike our other midfielders; both are players who can carry the ball forward and beat opponents in one-on-one situations.”

Composed display in defeat

Ugochukwu, who is eligible to represent Nigeria at international level, joined Galatasaray on loan during the current summer transfer window and has been given regular opportunities to impress in pre-season.

Against Monza, he operated in central midfield and was noted for his composure under pressure, tidiness on the ball and ability to help Galatasaray progress play from deep areas into more advanced positions.

Throughout the match he was described as assured in possession, rarely surrendering the ball and showing the technical quality that persuaded the Istanbul club to bring him in from Burnley.

Buruk’s side were unable to turn their spells of possession into a result, however, as the Italian visitors secured a 2-0 victory in the friendly.

Early impact at Rams Park

Ugochukwu played a little over an hour before being withdrawn with 28 minutes remaining, with Kaan Ayhan introduced as Buruk made changes to manage minutes across his squad.

Despite the defeat, the midfielder’s performance was viewed as one of the main positives for the Turkish champions as they continue preparations for the new campaign at Rams Park.

The loan signing will now aim to build on his encouraging early outings under Buruk, with the intention of establishing himself as a regular starter in Galatasaray’s midfield over the coming months.

Ugochukwu is also targeting sustained form across the 2026-2027 season to validate the club’s decision to bring him to Istanbul and to strengthen his case for a long-term role at the top level.