Galatasaray's Preparations Ahead of Sporting Lisbon Match and Rafael Leao's Status

Sitting at the top of the Super Lig, Galatasaray is preparing for the away match against Sporting Lisbon for the first fixture of the new Champions League season, while head coach Okan Buruk's squad choices and the latest status of the players are becoming clear.

Champions League Excitement Begins

Sitting in the leadership seat with ten points collected in the four weeks left behind in the Super Lig, Galatasaray is starting its UEFA Champions League adventure with the Sporting Lisbon fixture.

The yellow-red team aims to start the European arena with a victory by winning this challenging match to be played away.

Rafael Leao's Status in the Squad

Portuguese star football player Rafael Leao, who was added to the squad during the summer transfer window, drew attention with his performance during the time he stayed on the pitch in the Basaksehir match.

While the player, who is not yet fully ready, is expected to feature in the Sporting Lisbon match, it remains uncertain whether he will step onto the pitch in the starting eleven.

Okan Buruk's Tactical Plan

It is stated that head coach Okan Buruk is evaluating the possibility of deploying Rafael Leao, who is not yet fully ready, in the second part of the match.

The experienced manager and his team have largely completed the tactical setup of this critical ninety minutes to be played away.

Latest Status of Injuries

Prior to the Sporting Lisbon fixture, the health statuses of Osimhen and Lemina in the yellow-red team are also being closely monitored.

The club medical team is intensively continuing their efforts to get the two key players ready for this challenging encounter.

Match Date and Time

Galatasaray will give its first test in the Champions League league stage against Sporting Lisbon on Wednesday, September 9.

The match to be played in Portugal will start at 22:00 Turkey time and will glue football fans to their screens.