Has Kerem Akturkoglu’s performance improved since leaving Galatasaray?
Kerem Akturkoglu of Türkiye scores a goal during the UEFA Nations League B Group 4 match against Iceland at Gursel Aksel Stadium in Izmir, Türkiye on September 9, 2024. (AA Photo)
Turkish footballer Kerem Akturkoglu’s performance has captured attention in Portugal following his sensational display for Türkiye in their 3-1 victory against Iceland.
This success raises questions about his form after leaving Galatasaray, where he faced challenges before joining Benfica.
His hat-trick in the UEFA Nations League match is sparking discussions on whether his move to Benfica has unlocked a new level in his career.
Akturkoglu’s Galatasaray exit: Pressure, controversy, new beginning at Benfica
Akturkoglu’s departure from Galatasaray wasn’t free from drama. He faced immense pressure during his time at the club, with reports claiming that he experienced mobbing and internal conflicts.
According to several sports commentators, Kerem faced significant pressure to leave and even had his captaincy taken away.
He resisted an earlier offer from Spartak Moscow, citing concerns over the club’s involvement in European competitions.
Eventually, Benfica became his destination, a move that seems to have given him a fresh start.
Some commentators argue that his departure from Galatasaray was essential for his career growth. “Kerem has always been capable of this kind of football. He just needed the right environment to bring out his best,” Journalist Mehmet Arslan commented.
After enduring a turbulent time with Galatasaray, his transition to Benfica has allowed him to regain confidence and showcase his talents on a larger stage.
His performance against Iceland suggests that the change in scenery has been positive for his morale and game.
Hat-Trick against Iceland puts Kerem Akturkoglu’s performance in spotlight
Kerem’s stunning display in Türkiye’s victory over Iceland brought him significant attention from the Portuguese media.
His hat-trick in the UEFA Nations League match was not only crucial for Türkiye’s success but also served as a strong introduction to Benfica fans.
Several Portuguese publications, including Record and Ojogo, praised his performance. Record described his game as “mouth-watering,” while Ojogo emphasized the significance of his hat-trick by calling it a “show.”
The 25-year-old footballer’s ability to score three goals in a high-pressure match has fueled conversations about his potential at Benfica. After the game, Akturkoglu reflected on his journey, stating: “I came from the lower leagues, and now I’m at Benfica.”
His rise from the Turkish lower leagues to one of Europe’s most respected clubs has been nothing short of remarkable.
The question now is whether he can maintain this level of performance in the highly competitive Portuguese league.
Can Kerem Akturkoglu continue his success at Benfica?
While Akturkoglu’s debut for Benfica is highly anticipated, fans and analysts alike are curious to see if he can continue this form.
His mental resilience seems to have played a critical role in his revival. Kerem’s performance against Iceland, with his six shots and three key passes, shows he’s in the right frame of mind.
The real challenge is making this consistent.
The player himself acknowledges his path hasn’t been easy. After the match against Iceland, he was quick to remind everyone of his humble beginnings, saying: “I came from the bottom, and I’m here now.”
His determination to succeed at Benfica could prove to be a pivotal factor in his future performance.
