The Turkish Süper Lig has always been home to some exciting talent, but every so often, a few players shine so brightly that it feels like they’re playing in the wrong league.
Whether due to circumstance, opportunity, or the quirks of the transfer market, some footballers in Türkiye are clearly good enough for Europe’s elite competitions. Let’s look at seven players currently dominating the Süper Lig who deserve a place in one of the top 5 European leagues.
1. Victor Osimhen – Galatasaray
Fresh off a stellar season with Napoli that saw him win the Serie A title, the CAF Men’s Player of the Year found himself in the Süper Lig on loan due to transfer window timing. Unsurprisingly, Osimhen has hit the ground running, with 12 goal contributions in 11 league matches and five more in the Europa League. At just 25, he remains one of the world’s top strikers and is destined for a return to the Champions League spotlight.
2. Dominic Livaković – Fenerbahçe
Livaković’s heroics at the 2022 World Cup are unforgettable, with match-winning penalty saves and a perfect 10 rating from L’Équipe to his name. The Croatian goalkeeper continues to shine in Türkiye, but with his pedigree, it’s only a matter of time before a top European club comes calling.
3. Barış Alper Yılmaz – Galatasaray
At just 23, Yılmaz has become one of the highest-scoring wingers in the Süper Lig. His dribbling ability and eye for goal make him a standout talent, and with the rise of young Turkish stars like Arda Güler, it’s hard to see why Yılmaz hasn’t already been snapped up by a major European club.
4. Allan Saint-Maximin – Fenerbahçe/Al-Ahli
Known for his dazzling dribbling and pace, Saint-Maximin has retained his form in Türkiye after leaving Newcastle. At 27, he remains one of the best one-on-one attackers in Europe and could easily slot into a top-tier team in the Premier League or La Liga.
5. Krzysztof Piątek – İstanbul Başakşehir
The former Serie A striker is leading the Süper Lig Golden Boot race while carrying his mid-table team. His clinical finishing and ability to influence games make him an ideal candidate for a return to the likes of the Bundesliga or even a Premier League side in need of firepower.
6. Yunus Akgün – Adana Demirspor
The 24-year-old Turkish winger is having a breakout season, contributing 11 goals in 16 Süper Lig matches and adding five more in the Europa League. His performances suggest he’s ready to test himself at a higher level in Europe.
7. Dries Mertens – Galatasaray
Even at 36, Mertens remains a class act. His creativity and vision have made him a top assist provider in both the Süper Lig and Europa League this season. Like Pedro in Serie A, Mertens proves age is just a number when it comes to quality football.
Conclusion
While the Süper Lig continues to produce thrilling football, these players have shown they belong on the grander stages of Europe’s top leagues. Whether it’s a return for seasoned veterans or a breakout move for young talents, the future looks bright for these stars.
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