Kerem Aktürkoğlu SHOCKS Galatasaray Fans! What Will Happen Next?!

Fenerbahçe are gearing up for a crucial Europa League clash against Ferencváros, and amidst the preparations, midfielder Kerem Aktürkoğlu addressed the press, offering a glimpse into the team's mindset. Forget the derby, he insists, the focus is squarely on Europe right now. It's a refreshing attitude, and honestly, exactly what you want to hear from a player.

Kerem Aktürkoğlu SHOCKS Galatasaray Fans! What Wil...

Aktürkoğlu began by reflecting on their recent comeback victory against Rizespor, admitting that conceding the first goal took a toll. "Falling behind certainly affects the team's morale," he said. "In the locker room, we all believed we could turn the game around. Our coach asked if everyone believed, and we fought hard." The emphatic 5-goal victory, he added, provided a much-needed morale boost ahead of their European fixture. However, he stressed the importance of avoiding similar setbacks in the future, acknowledging the difficulty of consistently recovering from such deficits. It’s a fair point – you can’t rely on comebacks every single time, especially at this level.

While Aktürkoğlu may not be the team’s primary goalscorer, he emphasized the importance of contributing with goals and assists. "I have goals, but I wouldn't consider it a race for the top scorer," he clarified, acknowledging the presence of specialized strikers within the squad. "Scoring goals and providing assists is very important. I've managed to do it in three games, and I hope to continue. But achieving our team goals is more important." This, to me, highlights a key aspect of a good team player – prioritizing the collective success over individual accolades.

Inevitably, the conversation shifted to the highly anticipated derby match against Galatasaray on December 1st. But Aktürkoğlu remained steadfast in his focus. "We are not thinking about the derby right now," he stated firmly. "Our most important match is the next one. Our only focus is on tomorrow's game. I haven't heard anything about the derby being discussed internally, and it wouldn't be right to do so. Derbies are very important for our fans and the country." It's a disciplined approach, and perhaps a smart one, given the pressure that already surrounds these games.

Addressing external criticisms, Aktürkoğlu seemed unconcerned. "I'm not too concerned about what people say," he shrugged. "They will always find something to talk about. What's being said isn't very important. Even if I don't contribute with goals, I'm here to help my team, even if it's just by running. We are all here for that." He emphasized that the opinions of the coaches and those with a deep understanding of the game are what truly matter to him. And honestly, that’s the right attitude to have. Block out the noise and focus on what you can control.

Finally, Aktürkoğlu reiterated his commitment to Fenerbahçe and his burning desire to win the championship. "I am very motivated," he concluded. "I've had a different motivation since I arrived. I missed my country. I said that I wanted to win the championship here and that's why I came. We are doing very well as a team..." It's clear that he's bought into the project, and that kind of passion can be infectious. Now, all eyes are on that Ferencváros game.