Football Season Review

Champions: Galatasaray

Fatih Terim did a great job since he arrived late in December and tasted his 7th title in charge of Galatasaray, which also enabled them to take their place in the Champions League group stage after two years. They had to kick off the season with a huge shock, being eliminated from the Europa League’s 2nd qualifiying round by the Swedish minnows Östersunds. This cost coach Igor Tudor some important credit on the fans’ eyes, but then they built an incredible streak, dropping points just once in nine games. A goalless draw against Fenerbahce saw them starting to struggle in the league on the road. Game after game, coach Tudor had to face more pressure. As they suffered their 4th away defeat in a row, the board decided to part company with him and appointed the experienced coach Terim. His arrival increased the confidence of all players and the fans believed in the title strongly. It affected their performances in the derby fixtures very positively. Although they faced a disappointment in the Turkish Cup, it is no big deal at all, because the league title means a lot to them considering their financial situation. The guaranteed money prize will strengthen their hands against UEFA and they are not expected to be banned from European Cups this time around. Of course, they are expected to build a stronger squad for the next season considering that it will be very busy, but they are allowed to add new players as long as they keep a balance in the transfer market. So the experienced coach will have to make some good decisions in the summer.


Player of the Season: Bafetimbi Gomis