Galatasaray consider dumping star forward with ‘too many’ scandals

Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi celebrate against Fenerbahce.

Galatasaray consider dumping star forward with ‘too many’ scandals

Ayoola Kelechi 13:15 - 15.12.2024

The Turkish giants could be forced to let go of one of their star forwards this summer

Argentine forward Mauro Icardi’s time at Galatasaray appears to be on shaky ground as the Turkish club reportedly grows weary of his off-field controversies.

With his contract nearing its expiration, the club may decide to part ways, signalling the end of a turbulent chapter in Icardi’s career.

Galatasaray frustrated with scandalous Icardi

Galatasaray’s management is reportedly reconsidering Icardi’s contract renewal due to multiple off-field issues.

Mauro Icardi is out for the season.

These include unpaid alimony spanning eight months and his decision to undergo knee surgery and rehabilitation in Argentina without prior approval from the club.

The club’s dissatisfaction comes after a €10 million investment in Icardi’s transfer from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023, and the controversies surrounding the forward have tested the patience of Galatasaray officials, leading them to explore alternatives.

Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi in training for PAOK.
Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi in training

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, currently on loan from Napoli, has emerged as a potential long-term replacement.

Osimhen has made an immediate impact in the Turkish league, becoming Galatasaray’s top scorer and a fan favourite.

Icardi’s personal and legal struggles

Adding to Icardi’s woes are his fraught personal relationships and public legal battles with his estranged wife Wanda Nara.

Icardi and Wanda Nara got married in 2014 | Credit: X

He faces accusations of parental alienation and was recently seen undergoing psychological evaluations as part of their ongoing divorce proceedings.

Icardi’s strained family ties have also come under scrutiny. His sister, Ivana, revealed that Mauro’s early departure from home and their parents’ separation deeply affected his ability to maintain relationships.

Icardi and Wanda || getty

To compound matters, Icardi sparked controversy on social media by likening his struggles to those of actor Johnny Depp, a comparison criticised as an attempt to gain sympathy amid his personal and professional turmoil.

With his Galatasaray future hanging in the balance and ongoing personal and legal troubles, Icardi faces significant challenges in the coming months.