Turkey is experiencing a notable surge in its youth talent, laying the foundation for a promising future.

Despite the Turkish Süper Lig league not traditionally being recognised for churning out a high number of top talents, the national team’s recent form and qualification for the UEFA European Championship in 2024 underscore a new era for Turkish football.

With a recent victory against Germany and the anticipation of a major tournament on the horizon, there’s a palpable excitement about the emerging talents from this footballing nation.

This tactical analysis serves as a scout report on the top five Turkish talents who showcase the nation’s footballing potential.

As Turkey’s youth development gains momentum, these players are positioned to become critical contributors to both domestic and international football.

Through a comprehensive examination of their playing styles, strengths, and areas for improvement, this analysis aims to shed light on the exciting prospects shaping the landscape of Turkish football.

Arda Güler Scouting Report

Arda Güler, born on February 15, 2005, is a top talent currently associated with Real Madrid in the Spanish La Liga.

Primarily operating as a central attacking midfielder and winger, Güler has showcased his skills on the field with a contract extending until June 30, 2029, and a market value of €15m.

In his best role as a wide playmaker, Güler is actively involved in possession, often receiving the ball in the half-space.

While he doesn’t rely heavily on crosses or dribbles into the middle of the pitch, he excels in chance creation from wide as well as central areas.

Güler’s predominant left-footed nature doesn’t limit his effectiveness on the right, displaying versatility in his playing style.

In possession, his creativity and attacking technical abilities shine, particularly in his forward drives and striking quality.

His proficiency in going past opponents on his left foot employing trickery without a change of pace, is notable.

However, adapting to La Liga will require him to refine these skills against defenders adept at holding up play.

Starting from the right wing, Güler poses a real threat as he drifts inside and exploits spaces with his direct approach.

While his inclination for forward drives is a strength, further development should focus on adding variety and nuance to his game, including the ability to pause and hold the ball to unsettle opponents.

One area where Güler has room for improvement is in the defensive aspect of his game.

Real Madrid has devised a plan to enhance his physical attributes, but his reading of the game during turnovers, both his own and those of teammates, needs refinement.

While he exhibits good defensive instincts, his actions often require reinforcement from a close teammate.

Güler is a willing dueler in 1v1 situations but currently lacks the physical capacity to win the ball consistently from direct opponents.

Addressing these aspects will contribute to his overall growth as a player.

Kenan Yıldız Scouting Report

Kenan Yıldız, born on May 4, 2005, is a rising talent associated with Juventus in the Italian Serie A.

Operating as a versatile Winger and Second Striker, Yıldız boasts a contract extending until June 30, 2027, and is currently valued at €10m.

In his best role as a Shadow Striker, Yıldız actively engages in making short passes, particularly into the final third.

While he occasionally registers shots from outside the box, he isn’t a frequent presence in the penalty area.

Notably, he tends to avoid pressing the opposition high up the pitch, focusing more on offensive contributions during possession.

Yıldız’s playing style is characterised by skill, mobility, and energy.

Possessing a favourable body mass ratio, he demonstrates physical strength, power, stamina, and natural fitness, showing comfort in contact situations.

His technical proficiency, coupled with the confidence to execute killer passes, makes him a valuable playmaker who can create goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates.

A standout feature of Yıldız’s game is his inclination to find vertical options, effectively pushing his team forward to favourable finishing positions.

His ability to shield the ball and maintain excellent close control makes it extremely challenging for opponents to dispossess him.

Yıldız further showcases press-resistant qualities thanks to his composure and retention skills under pressure.

As he continues to develop, Yıldız represents a promising prospect for Juventus with the potential to contribute significantly to the team’s offensive prowess.

Can Uzun Scouting Report

Can Uzun, born on November 11, 2005, is a budding talent associated with 1.

FC Nürnberg in the competitive 2nd division of Germany.

Functioning as a Centre-Forward, Uzun’s contract extends until June 30, 2027, and he currently holds a market value of €8m.

Operating best as a shadow striker, Uzun excels in making short passes to teammates, particularly into the final third.

Additionally, he registers a moderate level of shots from outside the box, showcasing offensive contributions in possession.

Unlike traditional forwards, he tends to avoid pressing the opposition high up the pitch, preferring to focus on offensive endeavours.

One of Uzun’s standout qualities is his mental fortitude, demonstrating an ability to take calculated risks and maintain confidence in his skills despite setbacks.

This optimistic mindset translates into his on-field decisions, where he fearlessly attempts direct routes to goal, displaying a willingness to take on challenges that others might avoid.

While primarily positioned as a second striker or attacking midfielder, Uzun showcases tactical flexibility by dropping into deeper midfield positions during build-up phases.

Despite standing tall at 186cm, he surprises with a remarkable combination of balance and agility, defying traditional expectations based on his stature.

Uzun’s notable asset is his two-footed proficiency, contributes to his effectiveness in various situations on the field.

His quick decision-making and adept use of both feet add versatility to his playing style, whether engaging in tight duels or manoeuvring through open spaces.

His ball control remains a consistent and impactful aspect of his game, showcasing his technical prowess.

Impressively, Uzun’s proficiency extends to finishing scenarios, where his two-footed skills shine.

Whether using his supposedly “weaker” left foot or seamlessly transitioning between both, he displays comfort and efficiency, establishing himself as a potent threat in front of goal.

Semih Kılıçsoy Scouting Report

Semih Kılıçsoy, born on August 15, 2005, is an emerging talent associated with Beşiktaş, competing in the esteemed 1st division of Turkey.

Currently playing as a Centre-Forward, Kilicsoy’s contract extends until June 30, 2028, and he holds a market value of €550k.

Primarily characterised as a Mobile Striker, Kilicsoy tends to be heavily involved in offensive actions, showcasing skills in receiving the ball, dribbling in the final third, and executing shots from inside the box.

Unlike some strikers, he typically avoids defensive actions such as pressures, tackles, fouls, or duels.

This 18-year-old prospect, a product of the Beşiktaş academy, boasts an impressive track record with the U19 team, having scored 42 goals in 64 matches, equating to a remarkable strike rate of one goal in every 1.52 games.

While the transition from youth to senior level can pose challenges, Kilicsoy has navigated this phase with spectacular ease.

Known for his lethal finishing capabilities in front of goal, Kilicsoy is a versatile player who can also operate as an attacking midfielder and winger on either side of the pitch.

His adaptability extends to his playmaking skills, accumulating commendable assists during his tenure with Beşiktaş’ youth teams.

What sets Kilicsoy apart is his dynamism, allowing him to play with both feet.

This versatility enables him to position himself anywhere in the front third of the pitch, unrestricted by a dominant side.

Additionally, this attribute enhances his passing and playmaking abilities, making him a well-rounded asset on the field.

As Semih Kılıçsoy continues to develop his skills, his prolific goal-scoring record and versatility position him as a promising prospect for Beşiktaş and a player to watch in the coming years.

Efe Sarıkaya Scouting Report

Efe Sarıkaya, born on November 30, 2005, is a rising talent associated with Altay SK, competing in the competitive 2nd division of Turkey.

Serving as a left-footed centre-back, Sarıkaya’s current contract is set to expire on June 30, 2024, with a market value of €550k.

Known for his defensive prowess, Sarıkaya is categorised as a ball-winning defender.

This role is characterised by players who excel in performing a high number of recoveries in their own defensive third and are frequently involved in a high defensive line.

Unlike defenders who engage in short passes and defensive headers, those designated as ball-winning defenders focus on regaining possession without being extensively involved with the ball at their feet.

Despite his young age, Sarıkaya has already made a notable impact, earning a place in the Turkey U19 team.

In seven appearances for the national youth team, he has showcased his defensive abilities and contributed two goals.

Sarıkaya brings a valuable skill set to the pitch as a left-footed centre-back.

His defensive acumen, coupled with his ability to regain possession effectively, positions him as a crucial asset for Altay SK.

The ball-winning defender’s role suits his style of play, emphasising his dedication to defensive duties and a robust approach to securing possession.

With his contract ending in June 2024, Efe Sarıkaya has the opportunity to develop his skills further and potentially leave the club for a move to a top European league.

Conclusion

As we conclude this tactical analysis and scout report on the top five Turkish talents, a vivid picture emerges of the remarkable potential embedded in Turkish football.

These players showcase a blend of skill, versatility, and tactical acumen that bodes well for the future of Turkish football, both domestically and on the international stage.

While each player exhibits unique qualities, collectively, they represent a new generation of Turkish talent poised to make significant contributions to the sport.

From Efe Sarıkaya’s defensive prowess to Arda Güler’s flair on the attack and the promising versatility of players like Semih Kılıçsoy and Kenan Yıldız, this cohort carries the torch for Turkish football with distinction.

As these talents continue to evolve and refine their skills, the prospect of seeing them thrive on bigger stages becomes all the more exciting.

The synergy between their individual strengths and the collective growth of Turkish football sets a positive trajectory for the nation’s footballing future.