Eyüpspor midfielder Hamza Akman addressed his departure from Galatasaray and the realities of squad competition in the Süper Lig, stating according to his interview that elite roster depth rather than flaws in the youth academy prevents prospects from securing regular minutes in the senior side.
Hamza Akman Evaluates Galatasaray Youth Academy and Roster Depth
Galatasaray academy graduate Hamza Akman pointed to high-level squad competition as the primary hurdle for young players breaking into the senior team, according to his recent statements regarding his career and former club. The 21-year-old midfielder, now playing for Süper Lig side Eyüpspor, explained that breaking through requires overcoming established stars. “Düşünsenize geçen sene altyapıdan bir oyuncusunuz, forvetsiniz; Osimhen’le, Icardi’yi geçmeniz lazım,” Akman stated, illustrating the immense challenge faced by prospects competing against top-tier forwards like Victor Osimhen and Mauro Icardi.
Akman maintained that the youth setup itself is sound despite the low number of academy graduates securing permanent roles in the senior squad. “Galatasaray altyapısında bir sorun olduğunu düşünmüyorum,” he noted, adding that high-budget squad construction makes immediate breakouts difficult for teenagers, often necessitating loans or permanent transfers elsewhere.
New Season Preparation and Targets at Eyüpspor
Focusing on his current club, Akman reported that Eyüpspor is deep into a rigorous preparation camp ahead of the new campaign. Working under technical director Özhan Pulat, whom Akman praised for offering consistent backing, the midfielder aims to secure a regular spot in the starting eleven. “Özhan Hoca’yla ilişkim gayet iyi. Sürekli benimle konuşuyor, bana güvendiğini söylüyor,” Akman said regarding his manager’s confidence.
On team objectives, Akman outlined a steady trajectory for the newly formed squad, telling interviewers that the primary goal is maintaining league status before pushing into the mid-table bracket. Personally, the young midfielder has set his sights on earning a call-up to the A National Team through strong league performances.
Did you know? Hamza Akman spent 10 to 11 years within the Galatasaray youth system before making the switch to Eyüpspor in search of regular playing time.
Reflecting on Career Choices and Family Football Legacy
Leaving Galatasaray proved difficult after more than a decade at the club, but Akman acknowledged that a career move was necessary to secure playing time. Looking back with current experience, he suggested that young prospects might benefit from moving to different clubs around ages 15, 16, or 17 to gain earlier exposure to senior football.
Football remains a central theme within his family, shaped heavily by his father, Ayhan Akman. While the family lineage opened doors, Hamza Akman noted that it also brought heightened scrutiny. According to the midfielder, his father frequently reviews matches with him, emphasizing the need to improve the defensive side of his game alongside his work rate.
Future Ambitions in Domestic and European Leagues
Looking ahead, Akman outlined clear career steps starting with establishing himself as a key player at Eyüpspor, earning a national team nod, and eventually transferring to a major Turkish club such as Galatasaray, Beşiktaş, or Fenerbahçe. Beyond the Süper Lig, he harbors long-term ambitions to play in Europe, naming La Liga’s Barcelona and the Premier League’s Liverpool as his ultimate destinations.
When weighing future opportunities, Akman admitted that Galatasaray would hold a distinct advantage if both domestic and European offers arrived simultaneously. “Tabii ki de Galatasaray’ı bir adım öne koyarım her zaman,” he said, citing his extensive history with the club.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which team does Hamza Akman currently play for?
Hamza Akman plays as a midfielder for Süper Lig club Eyüpspor.
Why did Hamza Akman leave Galatasaray?
According to Akman, he left Galatasaray to secure regular playing time and accelerate his development, noting that high-level squad competition made senior minutes difficult to attain.
What are Hamza Akman’s career goals?
Akman aims to secure a regular starting role at Eyüpspor, earn a call-up to the A National Team, play for a major Turkish club, and eventually transfer to European sides like Barcelona or Liverpool.
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