In Galatasaray, which is going through a busy schedule in the Trendyol Süper Lig and the UEFA Champions League, the gap between squad costs and on-field efficiency has sparked debate. The performance of some high-earning players, in particular, has become a topic of discussion for the management and the technical staff.
According to a report by Ali Naci Küçük from Türkiye Gazetesi, departure scenarios are being evaluated for Leroy Sane, İlkay Gündoğan, and Kaan Ayhan during the mid-season transfer window at Galatasaray. It was stated that the total annual cost of the three players, excluding taxes, amounts to 19.5 million euros.
It was reported that head coach Okan Buruk did not receive the reaction he expected from Leroy Sane and İlkay Gündoğan, who received playing time in the Gençlerbirliği match, and that Kaan Ayhan, who has struggled to find a chance to play, has also fallen behind in the planning.
The report stated that Leroy Sane's appearance on the field has caused discomfort among the technical staff and management. It was alleged that the German player's attitude, which is far from taking responsibility, has also negatively reflected on team motivation.
It was noted that plans are in place to part ways in January with İlkay Gündoğan, whose contract expires at the end of the season, and that any official offers received during the mid-season break will be evaluated for Leroy Sane, who is under contract until 2028. It was stated that Galatasaray aims to generate transfer fee revenue from Sane.
It was also stated that for Kaan Ayhan, who is under contract until 2028, approval could be given for a departure if an offer arrives. The national player has only appeared in 1 official match this season.
According to the data in the report, Leroy Sane, who earns 12 million euros annually, has failed to contribute a goal or an assist in 10 official matches this season. While İlkay Gündoğan, who receives an annual salary of 5 million euros, has not contributed to the score in 3 official matches, Kaan Ayhan's annual cost was reported as 2.5 million euros.
News Source: 12punto
