Football Season Guide

Galatasaray enter the new season with the pressure that always comes after another successful period. The expectations are no longer limited to domestic football as the fans want to see the team become much more competitive in Europe too. That is why squad planning is very important this summer. Unlike some of their rivals, they have managed to protect an important part of the main structure but there are still some significant changes, especially in the offence line. The biggest departure is Mauro Icardi. The experienced striker left after his contract came to an end and his absence will change the attacking rotation. Zaha also left the club while Asprilla and Noa Lang returned to their parent clubs following their loan periods. Zaniolo briefly returned but then moved to Udinese. On the other hand, several young players came back from their loan periods and could provide some depth. It seems like the board still have some work to do offensively considering the number of departures. In midfield, Lesley Ugochukwu was added on loan from Burnley. His physical power could be useful especially in difficult European fixtures. Eyup Aydin also returned from Kasimpasa. At backline, Nelsson and Jelert are back following their loan periods while Kazimcan Karatas and Ali Turap Bulbul also returned. So, the coach has enough numbers there at the moment. The main question is how many of those returning players will actually remain in the squad when the transfer window closes. Galatasaray have enough quality to dominate many domestic opponents but their squad depth will be tested much more seriously in Europe. If the board manage to fill the holes left in attack, they should enter the season as one of the strongest title candidates once again.