There is no doubt Turkey is witnessing a rise in football talent, good news for its national team and local leagues. The Turkish league has previously produced global stars, but it has yet to reach the levels of other European nations such as Spain, Portugal, Belgium, the Netherlands, France, Italy, and England. The Turkish national team is currently involved in the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany, where they will face Austria on Tuesday for a place in the quarter-finals. For Euro betting, the Betway app has tens of different markets for all matches.
We look at five of Turkey’s young talents who can change the narrative and lead their country to the highest ranks in world football.
Arda Güler
The young real Madrid prodigy had to be first on the list, especially after his recent exploits in the Euros. Born on February 15 2005 Arda Güler stands out as a huge talent who will be expected to light the football world for the next generation. Famed for his natural abilities as an attacking midfielder and winger, Güler is contracted with the Spanish giants until June 30 2029, and has a market value of €15 million. His dribbling skills and ability to beat opponents with his left foot makes him a threat for defenders, particularly when operating from the right wing and cutting inside.
To realize his dreams, Güler must allow room for improvement in all aspects of the game, especially defensively, and in controlling and slowing the game to unsettle opponents.
Kenan Yıldız
Born on May 4, 2005, Kenan Yıldız is an up-and-coming talent currently contracted with Juventus in Serie A. Yıldız excels as a winger and second striker for both club and country, but he is best utilized as a backup striker providing passes with his occasional long-range shots. While he might not be the best at pressing, his offensive responsibilities, agility, stamina, and physical prowess make him a formidable asset. He has been involved in all three matches for Turkey in Germany so far, a testament to how important he is in the team. You can log into Betway to bet on all remaining Euro matches, alongside other sporting events
Semih Kılıçsoy
Born on August 15 2005, Semih Kılıçsoy is another rising Turkish star from Beşiktaş in Turkey’s premier league. Known for his agility and goal-scoring prowess, Kılıçsoy has already announced himself on the global scene with some solid performances in the 2024 Euros in Germany. He has a commendable track record with the U19 team where he boasts 42 goals in 64 games. His versatility can see him excel as an attacking midfielder or winger due to his finishing skills and playmaking abilities.
Can Uzun
Born on November 11 2005, Can Uzun is a center forward at FC Nürnberg in Germanys First division. Uzun is famed for his passing range into the final third, and his willingness to take calculated risks with his direct approach, towards goal. Unlike natural forwards, Uzun prefers prioritizing gameplay over pressing opponents.
Efe Sarıkaya
Efe Sarıkaya was born on November 30 2005, and plays as a center back for Altay SK in Turkey’s second division. Sarıkaya is known for his strength and ability to win back possession. His role as a ball-winning defender involves recovery in defense and emphasis on maintaining possession. Sarıkaya has made significant contributions to the Turkeys U19 team both defensively and offensively, and with his contract expiring at the end of June, we could see big teams in the local top tier, or across Europe lining up for his signature.
The list could go on and on, but the above-mentioned young players represent a pool of up-and-coming talent from Turkey. The onus is currently on Arda Güler, who the nation will be watching during the upcoming Euro fixtures. He might not be the only one tasked with carrying Turkey past Austria, but there are a lot of expectations. All Euro matches can be wagered on the Betway app or the web.