Galatasaray star Barış Alper Yılmaz will be fit for the second leg against Liverpool, despite an injury in Tuesday evening’s 1–0 win.
That’s according to Now Spor commentator Veli Yiğit, via Haber Sari Kirmizi. He reports that he has spoken to the 25-year-old after the game.
Galatasaray beat Liverpool 1-0 yesterday in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 clash. An early goal from Mario Lemina separated the two sides.
Yilmaz started the game and played a significant role in the win. He was a constant threat on the right wing before being substituted in the 93rd minute. His pace was a major issue for Liverpool’s defence, leading to yellow cards for Milos Kerkez and Virgil van Dijk.
Impressive performance
He was also part of the controversy ruling out Victor Osimhen’s goal, with VAR ruling that he had been offside in the build-up.
It was a battling performance throughout, shown by the knee injury that he picked up in the game. Galatasaray showed his war wounds in a post after the game alongside the hashtag #NeverGiveUp.
He received treatment on the pitch for that injury but later continued playing. It had initially caused some concern, but Veli Yiğit insists there’s no concern.
YILMAZ! #NeverGiveUp 💛❤️ pic.twitter.com/EkqU20qivJ
— Galatasaray SK (@GalatasaraySK) March 11, 2026
Message from player over fitness
“I spoke with Barış Alper. He has no injury,” Veli Yiğit said.
Yılmaz’s fitness for the second leg will certainly boost Galatasaray as they look to pull off a big win at Anfield.
Liverpool’s performance in the first meeting will undoubtedly give them hope. It’s already been explained that the Turkish side ‘buried’ Arne Slot’s team in that game.
Indeed, the feeling is that a win at Anfield would lead to complaints from Liverpool. It’s even been suggested that the Reds may send letters to UEFA if they lose the second leg as well. We’re sure Yilmaz would love to be a part of happening.