Former Turkish nationwide staff participant Mehmet Topal, famend for his tenure with Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, Beşiktaş and Valencia, has launched into a brand new chapter as the pinnacle coach of Romania’s Petrolul Ploieşti.
During preparations for the upcoming season at their coaching camp in Bolu, Topal shared unique insights with Demirören News Agency (DHA) on varied subjects, together with his transition to teaching, staff philosophy, switch methods and aspirations for Euro 2024.
Reflecting on his post-playing profession, Topal described the preliminary yr as comfy but transitional, following a rigorous soccer profession and private challenges post-retirement.
“After a seismic shift in my life, we underwent a tough recovery phase for two years. Once we felt ready, we decided to begin anew, hoping for a positive outcome,” he expressed.
Transitioning straight from participant to educate, Topal acknowledged the inherent challenges in teaching, emphasizing: “Just like playing, coaching presents its own set of difficulties. I chose to complete my education and obtain the necessary licenses before diving in solo. Coaching is tougher than playing; I’ve always embraced responsibility.”
Regarding his alternative to begin his teaching profession in Romania somewhat than Türkiye, Topal defined: “Stepping out of your comfort zone is key to achieving certain milestones. We had more comfortable options, but Romania offered a promising start. My decision was backed by a week-long dialogue with Vice President Christian Fogarassy, fostering a productive partnership and effective planning.”
Planning long-term methods, Topal highlighted the rigorous competitors and high-level depth of the Romanian League, contrasting it with Turkish soccer’s operational disparities.
“We’re executing a two-to-three-year plan, with interim goals aligned to exceed expectations. The team’s positive direction hinges on our strategic transfers and performance execution,” he stated.
The heat reception from Petrolul Ploieşti followers upon his arrival stunned Topal, elevating staff ambitions.
“Their fervent welcome honored us greatly, underscoring their unwavering support and increasing our accountability. We’re committed to not disappointing them,” he stated.
Expanding on teaching challenges, Topal differentiated between participant and coach tasks.
“As a player, your focus is on personal performance and physical upkeep. Coaching extends this accountability to managing everyone, demanding a heightened responsibility level,” he stated.
Discussing Petrolul Ploieşti’s gameplay underneath his steering, Topal outlined: “We aim to embody a resilient team ethos, implementing my football philosophy. Starting fresh this preseason allows us to build our squad from scratch, a significant advantage for us. I aim for adaptive strategies rather than rigid systems.”
Topal expressed curiosity in recruiting Turkish gamers from the Süper Lig, though he acknowledged the procedural challenges in Romania’s recruitment system. “Our intent is to bring in Turkish talent, although Romanian regulations pose constraints,” he acknowledged.
Assessing the continued UEFA Euro 2024 event, Topal carefully screens participant performances and nationwide staff dynamics. “It’s an exhilarating tournament, but we must support our players amidst any criticisms. Despite recent setbacks, I firmly believe in our team’s resilience and future potential,” he affirmed.
Commenting on Türkiye’s soccer tradition, Topal lamented its volatility and emotionalism.
“We celebrate wins collectively but also endure severe criticisms. Establishing a sustainable football culture remains a priority; we need leadership from within the sport,” he stated.
Anticipating a aggressive Süper Lig season, Topal hoped for broader title competition past conventional frontrunners.
“Last season showcased a thrilling duel between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe, setting new records amid distracting controversies. We aim for a more inclusive title race this season,” he concluded.
Source: www.dailysabah.com