Football Season Guide

Gaziantep managed to stay at top level last season but they enter the new campaign with some serious questions about their squad. The biggest concern is the number of regular players who left during the summer. So far, most of the players coming into the team are returning from loan periods rather than new signings. That is why their outlook could change a lot before the transfer window closes. As things stand, they seem weaker in several important positions. Defence is probably the biggest concern. Kevin Rodrigues left for Genclerbirligi while Mujakic returned to Partizan and Tayyip Talha Sanuc went back to Besiktas following the end of his loan period. M'Bakata is also no longer with the club. This means they have lost several players who could take responsibility at the backline. Onur Basyigit returned from his loan period but they absolutely need some experienced defensive reinforcements. There is a similar situation on the net. Burak Bozan joined Amed while Zafer Gorgen returned to Rizespor. Young Ibrahim Kagan Alkis came back from Kilis but it would be very risky to enter the season without adding a proven keeper. Offence line has also lost important options. Mohamed Bayo, Yusuf Kabadayi and Lungoyi all left the team. Enver Kulasin and Mirza Cihan returned from their loan periods but they should not be expected to carry the entire offensive responsibility. In midfield, the departure of Melih Kabasakal is another loss while Bacuna returned from Volendam. Yusuf Delen and Burak Enes Yikici also came back to increase the numbers. In general, Gaziantep urgently need some new blood in almost every department. If they fail to make the necessary moves, they could have serious problems once the season begins.