Galatasaray Looks to End European Slump Against PAOK

Galatasaray aims to reverse its poor European form when they face Greek side PAOK in the UEFA Europa League group stage tonight.

After being eliminated from the UEFA Champions League play-offs by Young Boys, the Turkish side enters the Europa League in search of a much-needed win. The match will take place at RAMS Park on September 25, with Spanish referee Alejandro Hernandez in charge.

Galatasaray’s European campaign this season has been disappointing. After losing both legs to Young Boys (3-2 and 1-0), they are eager to make a fresh start in the Europa League. Their poor form in European competitions has seen them lose their last three matches, including a heavy defeat to Sparta Prague last season. Galatasaray will also be without key players Fernando Muslera, who is serving a three-match ban, and Hakim Ziyech and Roland Sallai due to injuries.

PAOK, on the other hand, secured their place in the group stage by beating Shamrock Rovers 6-0 on aggregate in the Europa League play-offs. The Greek champions, led by coach Razvan Lucescu, are no strangers to Turkish opposition, having previously faced Fenerbahçe and Beşiktaş in European competitions. Galatasaray will need to be wary of PAOK’s strong start to the season, as they currently sit atop the Greek Super League.

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Okan Buruk Returns to the Dugout

Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk will return to the touchline after serving a two-match ban imposed by UEFA following last season’s heated encounter against Sparta Prague. His return is expected to bolster the team as they prepare for this critical match. Galatasaray’s attack will rely on Michy Batshuayi, Barış Alper Yılmaz, and Dries Mertens, who have all been instrumental this season. The Turkish side has made a strong start domestically, winning all six of their Super League matches, but their European form has been a stark contrast.

Galatasaray’s poor recent record in Europe, combined with PAOK’s impressive start to the season, makes this a crucial test for Buruk’s side. The team’s ability to balance their domestic success with their European ambitions will be key as they face a difficult group, which includes strong sides like Tottenham Hotspur, AZ Alkmaar, and Ajax. Despite their struggles, Galatasaray’s European pedigree—having lifted the UEFA Cup in 2000—remains a source of pride and inspiration for the club.

Site Opinion – Time to Step Up

Galatasaray must bring their domestic form to Europe if they are to turn their season around. While the team has been flawless in the Super League, their lack of consistency on the European stage is worrying. With coach Okan Buruk back on the sidelines and a talented squad at his disposal, the pressure is on to deliver.

PAOK, though formidable, presents an opportunity for Galatasaray to regain confidence and momentum. If the team can secure a win, it could set the tone for a successful Europa League campaign. However, anything less than a victory will only deepen the club’s European woes.