Galatasaray Assistant Coach İrfan Saraloğlu made significant remarks following the 3-1 victory against Kasımpaşa in the 7th week of the Trendyol Süper Lig. Saraloğlu attended the post-match press conference at RAMS Park due to head coach Okan Buruk's red card suspension.
Reminding that Kasımpaşa had arrived at the match undefeated, Saraloğlu stated that they had secured a valuable 3 points against a strong opponent. Saraloğlu noted the importance of starting the league with a win after the international break, adding that this result would provide energy and strength to the team for both the league campaign and the upcoming Champions League match against Barcelona.
Expressing that they dominated the game in the first half, Saraloğlu mentioned that they had numerous touches in the penalty area but did not get the efficiency they wanted in the final shots. The experienced coach noted that it was important to go into the break leading 1-0, and that they did not give the opponent many opportunities in the second half until the red card.
CRITICISM OF REFEREE DECISIONS
Saraloğlu also reacted to some of the referee's decisions during the match. Stating that they expected a foul in the position involving Abdülkerim Bardakcı, Saraloğlu argued that VAR and the referee did not evaluate this contact. Noting that he also approached the red card decision with suspicion, Saraloğlu expressed that they still respect the referees.
Emphasizing that Galatasaray did not give up despite playing with one man down for approximately 35 minutes, Saraloğlu said that the contribution of the substitutes and the support of the fans were decisive in the victory. Saraloğlu commented, "We also had the enthusiasm of our spectators behind us. We found the second and third goals."
Stating that they had difficulty working with a full squad during the international break, Saraloğlu nevertheless underlined the trust they have in the group of players. Saying that they did not have any problems with squad planning, Saraloğlu added that Singo would also join the team soon.
Responding to criticisms regarding their physical condition, Saraloğlu said, "We have no physical deficiencies whatsoever." Arguing that statistics and research show that Galatasaray is approaching the running tempo of top-tier leagues in Europe, Saraloğlu thanked the physical performance department.
Speaking hopefully about the Barcelona match, Saraloğlu said that fans could expect a win. Saraloğlu stated, "We are not hopeless on any platform. We are a strong team. Barcelona's financial value is higher than ours, but we will be playing on our own home turf," he said.
Touching on Barış Alper Yılmaz's performance, Saraloğlu stated that they are extremely pleased with the national footballer. Pointing to the physical strength of Barış Alper, who can play in different positions, Saraloğlu said that the player's potential is even higher and that Europe could create a different vision for him.
News Source: 12punto
