As Türkiye’s nationwide workforce gears up for its maiden look within the UEFA Nations League’s A-tier, eyes have turned to its ambassadors lighting up European and Saudi pitches – or fading within the glare.
The performances of Turkish internationals donning elite jerseys throughout Italy, Portugal, Germany and Saudi Arabia have come beneath the microscope.
Some are basking within the highlight; others are battling for rhythm and relevance.
Çalhanoğlu the final
Since switching from AC Milan to archrivals Inter Milan in 2021, Hakan Çalhanoğlu has advanced right into a tactical anchor.
With class in set-pieces and calm beneath stress, the 31-year-old has helped Inter attain the Champions League quarterfinals this season.
His tally: 10 objectives, 4 assists in 35 appearances – plus a top-20 Ballon d’Or nomination.
Rising Yıldız
At simply 19, Kenan Yıldız is already carrying Juventus’ iconic No. 10 – evoking whispers of a brand new Alessandro Del Piero.
The former Bayern Munich youth star has bagged seven objectives and 4 assists in 43 video games.
His standout second got here with a heroic brace off the bench in opposition to Inter to salvage a draw.
Benfica’s dynamic duo
After a shaky begin publish his 25 million euro ($27.3 million) transfer, Orkun Kökçü roared into type, netting 10 objectives and 7 assists throughout 44 matches.
Dubbed “Benfica’s sharpshooter,” he’s change into a midfield engine.
Joining him is former Galatasaray winger Kerem Aktürkoğlu. With 14 objectives and 10 assists in 42 video games, Kerem immediately turned a fan favourite, significantly after scoring on his debut from Orkun’s help.
The duo powered Benfica previous Monaco within the Champions League spherical of 16.
Zeki Çelik’s reliability
Signed from Lille in 2022, Zeki Çelik has locked down Roma’s proper flank, outplaying veteran Florenzi.
The 27-year-old notched one objective and three assists over 36 matches, changing into an emblem of consistency within the Italian capital.
Güler’s spark awaits ignition
After a high-profile switch from Fenerbahçe, Arda Güler’s minutes at Real Madrid have been scarce – simply 1,170 minutes in 33 video games.
Still, with three objectives and three assists, the 20-year-old has impressed when given an opportunity.
His trophy cupboard already consists of La Liga, Supercopa, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup.
National workforce coach Vincenzo Montella continues to belief him – Arda contributed two objectives and one help in seven Nations League matches.
Lone Demiral in Saudi
Formerly of Atalanta, Merih Demiral moved to Al-Ahli for 16.5 million euros.
In a league booming with star imports, he has held his personal, enjoying 2,818 minutes throughout 33 video games with one objective and one help.
Frankfurt’s multi-tool Uzun
Just 19, Can Uzun’s versatility shines at Eintracht Frankfurt – thriving within the No. 10 function and throughout the entrance line.
The Nurnberg graduate has 5 objectives and two assists in 26 video games.
Rejecting a Germany call-up, he debuted for Türkiye in March 2024.
Season to neglect for Özcan
Salih Özcan cut up this season between Wolfsburg and Borussia Dortmund however did not cement a beginning function.
He performed simply three full matches throughout 21 appearances, falling in need of expectations.
Still, the 27-year-old stays in Montella’s plans.
Lone Bayındır in Manchester
After becoming a member of Manchester United for five million euros, Altay Bayındır has largely been benched.
But he stole headlines with a heroic FA Cup efficiency in opposition to Arsenal – beginning, saving two penalties, and sealing the win.
Young weapons: Bertuğ, Atakan and Cenk
Bertuğ Yıldırım (Getafe): Three objectives, one help in 21 matches. Entered late in key Nations League ties.
Atakan Karazor (Stuttgart): Two objectives, 4 assists in 39 video games. A dependable midfield anchor in each Bundesliga and Champions League.
Cenk Özkaçar (Valladolid): Loaned from Valencia however fighting simply seven appearances.
Source: www.dailysabah.com