Wanda Nara and Mauro Icardi (foto: Official TW/IG/FB account)
Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk suggests Mauro Icardi’s personal issues with ex-wife Wanda Nara have impacted his career, as the striker faces a season-ending injury.
Mauro Icardi has suffered a season-ending injury with Galatasaray after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus, but his personal life continues to cast a shadow over his footballing career. Galatasaray's coach, Okan Buruk, addressed the impact of Icardi’s turbulent relationship with his ex-wife, Wanda Nara, on his performance.
In an interview with TRT Sport, Buruk expressed his belief that Icardi’s family issues have affected his career trajectory: "If Mauro hadn't had problems with his wife, everything would be completely different for him now. Maybe he would have been the starting centre-forward for the Argentine national team."
Icardi, who has been a vital part of Galatasaray’s attack, now faces months of rehabilitation. Buruk emphasized the importance of family stability for a player’s performance: "He is a great father and loves his family and his children. If the player is not happy, it is not possible to achieve performances on the field."
Before his injury, Icardi was a key figure in the Galatasaray lineup, drawing comparisons to the likes of Victor Osimhen and Dries Mertens for his influence in attack. Now, the club must adapt without him while he recovers.
Meanwhile, Wanda Nara, Icardi's former wife and agent, has returned to Argentina to pursue her television career and reportedly embrace a new romance with rapper L-Gante. Her absence has fueled speculation about the strain it has placed on Icardi’s mental well-being and his ability to focus on football.
While Galatasaray has shown support for Icardi during his injury recovery, the situation underscores the challenges professional athletes face when personal issues intersect with their careers. For now, Icardi remains sidelined, leaving fans and the club awaiting his return to form.