Football Season Guide

The last season’s performance of the Lions could be described as a huge disappointment, if they had not managed to win the Turkish Cup by defeating their eternal rivals Fenerbahce. In the league, the fans had to face one of the worst performance in their club history as they finished in the 5th place and two teams outside the big four overtook them in the table. Eleven teams have conceded fewer goals than the Lions. The board had to make three coaching changes during the season. In the European Cups, they could not go further than the late days of February. To face the ban of UEFA was another shocking news. It was due to the financial fair-play and they are still facing it. In order to reduce their debts, they had to sell Burak Yilmaz to the Chinese league but it is not enough. Some important players like Sneijder, Muslera and maybe Bruma may depart the team before the new season’s kick-off. When Mr. Riekerink was promoted as the head coach from the youth academy, most of the fans were not happy because of his career but the team did well under his control. That is why the board decided to work with him in the current season. The Dutch coach’s team will be completely motivated in the league and the cup because they are ineligible to compete in the European cups for one year. This could be considered as a big advantage but their squad looks a little bit short. During the summer transfer market, they could sign Serdar Aziz and Emrah Bassan. On the other hand, they saw several departures like Emre Colak, Bilal Kisa, Alex Telles. The defence line could be good enough but the midfield and the offence line are not. Bruma could add a great power, if he stays at the club following his loan returns. Bruma’s pre-season performance is very satisfactory. Except Umut Bulut and a young man, there is no killer upfront. Yasin Oztekin could do well again but a couple of wingers should be signed. Speaking about the offence, all eyes will be on Sneijder and Podolski. If they can not perform well, there is no doubt that they will face problems. Of course, Muslera’s performance is also crucial on the net. Last season, he did not seem motivated and conceded more than expected. Until the new season is kicked off, the Lions need to be very active in the summer market. If they can do that and use their fitness advantage considering that they will be competing only in the league and the cup, they can return to sunny days.