Sara Gündoğan blames coach Okan Buruk for her husband's few minutes

In the Turkish stadium of Galatasaray Istanbul, Ilkay Gündogan is again sitting on the bench, while his wife Sara Gündoğan on social media blames coach Okan Buruk for her husband's limited minutes. The 35‑year‑old former captain of the German national team has so far received only eleven minutes of play this season.

Limited playing time and public protest

Gündogan only came on in the 84th minute of the Champions League match against Sporting Lisbon, a 1‑3 defeat, which was his second appearance of the season. Sara Gündoğan stated on Social Media that those interested should ask the coach directly about the reason for the limited playing time.

She emphasized that her husband had reduced his salary for the move to Istanbul and had turned down higher offers from other clubs. At the same time, she pointed out that rumours of an annual salary of six to seven million euros were unfounded.

Reactions from the environment and fan sphere

After the match, former Turkish international Nihat Kahveci criticised the late substitution and claimed that Gündogan does not run fast enough in training. Several Galatasaray fans have been calling for the midfielder's departure for weeks.

A fan accused Sara on Social Media of saying her husband earns too much, to which she responded: “If you want to know why Ilkay isn’t playing, ask your coach, not me.” She also defended herself against insults directed at her and her children.

Gündogan moved to Istanbul in 2025, but was unable to build on his peak years at Manchester City. The current situation shows that the debate over his playing minutes continues to escalate, while the Gündoğan family defends itself against personal attacks.