Football Season Guide

Kocaelispor managed to survive in their first season back at top level and this should be considered a satisfactory result after their long absence from the Super League. They had some ups and downs during the season but collected enough points to stay away from the bottom places. No doubt that their passionate home support helped them a lot in some crucial fixtures. Ahead of the new season, the main question is whether they can take another step forward or face the difficult second-season syndrome. This summer, they have seen some important departures in every part of the squad. Regular keeper Gokhan Degirmenci left the team while Onurcan Piri was brought from Kayserispor. It looks like he will be one of the main candidates for the starting role on the net. In defence, Balogh and Smolcic returned to their clubs following their loan periods while experienced Ahmet Oguz also left. In order to fill their roles, they added young Zoukrou on loan and brought Emir Ortakaya & Ugur Kaan Yildiz. They have some potential but their performances at this level will be a question mark. Midfield has also changed significantly. Linetty left while the loan periods of Show and Habib Keita came to an end. Interestingly, the club brought both players back in the summer but their situations should be followed until the end of the transfer window. Looking at offence line, the departure of Serdar Dursun decreases their options. Can Keles also returned to Besiktas. Makana Baku and Haydar Karatas were added but they still seem to need a reliable goal scorer. In general, there are enough numbers in the squad but some new arrivals have to prove themselves at Super League level. Their home advantage should help them again but they need more quality if they want to improve their position.