All you need to know about upcoming Turkish Super Lig
Türkiye prepares for highly anticipated Turkish Super League, July 8, 2024. (AA Photo)
As the Turkish Super Lig gears up for another thrilling season, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the teams will perform. The 2023-24 season promises intense competition, with clubs aiming to clinch the title and set new records.
So let’s have a look at team preparations, key players, notable transfers, stadiums, the historical context of the league, and the best moments from the past season.
Team preparations, expectations from Turkish Super Lig
Galatasaray seeks to retain its title, building on its past successes. Coach Okan Buruk has implemented rigorous training sessions, focusing on both physical fitness and strategic gameplay. The team looks strong with players like Mauro Icardi, Kerem Akturkoglu, and Lucas Torreira leading the charge.
Fenerbahce, last season’s runner-up with 99 points, under coach Jose Mourinho, aims to reclaim its former glory. The team has strengthened its squad with strategic signings. Fans are particularly excited about Youssef En-Nesyri, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Cenk Tosun’s contributions.
Besiktas, another top contender, has been working on improving its defensive strategies. Coach Giovanni van Bronckhorst emphasizes a balanced approach, ensuring both offensive and defensive strengths. Last year Beşiktaş failed to live up to expectations and finished sixth in the league with 56 points. But after winning the Turkish Cup and then crushing arch-rival Galatasaray 5-0 in the Super Cup final, Beşiktaş gave positive signals about this season. Key players such as Ciro Immobile, Rafa Silva and Gedson Fernandes are expected to play crucial roles.
Tranzonspor, who finished third last year, wants to become champion again this year by raising its target this year, as in the 2021-22 season. Coach Abdullah Avci has reinforced the squad with several new players, aiming to maintain their top-tier performance. The team’s midfield, featuring Ozan Tufan and Batista Mendy, will be pivotal.
Comparison of top 4 teams in Turkish Super Lig
| Team | Matches Played | W | D | L | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Galatasaray | 38 | 33 | 3 | 2 | 102 |
| Fenerbahce | 38 | 31 | 6 | 1 | 99 |
| Trabzonspor | 38 | 21 | 4 | 13 | 67 |
| Basaksehir | 38 | 18 | 7 | 13 | 61 |
| Kasımpasa | 38 | 16 | 8 | 14 | 56 |
| Besiktas | 38 | 16 | 8 | 14 | 56 |
Key players to watch in Turkish Super Lig
- Mauro Icardi (Galatasaray): Known for his goal-scoring prowess, Icardi will be a significant threat to opponents.
- Edin Dzeko (Fenerbahce): The experienced striker brings valuable expertise to the team.
- Ciro Immobile (Besiktas): Immobile’s ability to perform in crucial moments makes him a key player.
- Enis Bardhi (Trabzonspor): His leadership and midfield control are vital for Trabzonspor’s strategy.
Statistics of key players in Turkish Super Lig 2024
| Player | Team | Goals | Assists | Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mauro Icardi | Galatasaray | 25 | 9 | 34 |
| Edin Dzeko | Fenerbahce | 21 | 6 | 36 |
| Semih Kilicsoy | Besiktas | 11 | 3 | 23 |
| Paul Onuachu | Trabzonspor | 15 | 4 | 21 |
Notable transfers to Türkiye
- Galatasaray acquired Sara and Elias Jelert, enhancing their options.
- Fenerbahce signed Youssef En-Nesyri, Allan Saint-Maximin, and Cenk Tosun, significantly bolstering their squad.
- Besiktas brought in key players like Jean Ciro Immobile, Rafa Silva.
- Trabzonspor added several players, including Ozan Tufan and Okay Yukuslu, to strengthen their lineup.
Stadiums chosen for Turkish Super Lig
The stadiums in the Turkish Super Lig are known for their vibrant atmosphere. RAMS Park (Galatasaray), Sukru Saracoglu Stadium (Fenerbahce), and Tupras Stadium (Besiktas) stand out as iconic venues. Fans eagerly fill these stadiums, creating an electrifying environment that boosts player morale and performance.
Historical context of Turkish Super Lig
The Turkish Super Lig has a rich history, dating back to its inception in 1959. Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, and Besiktas have been the dominant forces, each with numerous titles. However, the league has also seen underdog teams rise and challenge the traditional powerhouses. This competitive spirit keeps the league unpredictable and exciting.
Best moments from past season
Best goal: Paul Onuachu’s stunning volley against Konyaspor.
Best match: The thrilling 3-1 win of Besiktas against league champion Galatasaray at Tupras Stadium. This match had everything – goals, and drama that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Best save: Rizespor goalkeeper Gokhan Akkan’s brilliant reflexes in the match against Fenerbahse in the seventh week of the league was recorded as the best save of the league
Best young player: Semih Kilicsoy (Besiktas). His impressive performances throughout the season have marked him as one of the most promising talents in the league.
Best coach: Okan Buruk (Galatasaray). Leading his team to the title with strategic brilliance, Buruk’s impact was undeniable.
Best fans: The loyal supporters of Trabzonspor, whose unwavering support and passionate displays created an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams.
