Football Season Guide

Antalya finished the last season with a 16-game undefeated run but their previous performances prevented them from earning a ticket to Europe. To sign Haji Wright on a permanent deal was a great success for coach Nuri Sahin after the American striker scored 15 goals last season. Four new players have been signed in Alperen, Soner, Larsson and Omer. All are expected to be starters. Especially, experienced center-back Omer is expected to be one of the coach’s pets after spending 12 years in Bundesliga. Alperen and Soner are expected to be seen in the 1st eleven frequently considering the foreign player rule. Larsson was also brought in to cover for Dogukan who was sold to Hull City. In general, they have managed to save the main structure of the last season except a few players. Those roles were replaced successfully. So, the coach will have strength in depth with coverage in most roles. Injuries are a potential weakness because Boffin, Veysel, Kudrayshov, Omer, Poli and Adriano, who are expected to be regular starters, are all over 33. The coach will have to use them smartly during the whole season. It should not be a surprise to see them have injuries, if the coach does not do it. All newcomers have high quality to make the starting line up. So, it makes the coach have a wide range squad. He should not hesisate to rotate when they face a busy schedule.