The Turkish star scored six goals in the group stage of the Champions League, and he will be eager to prove himself on the biggest stage against Schalke on Wednesday.

The duo’s respective decisions to move to Istanbul in January shed a global light on the Turk Telekom Arena, but the Super Lig champions owe their place in the last 16 of the Champions League to to a far less-known name, Burak Yilmaz.

In truth, his rise to the top of the Turkish game has been a long, drawn-out one. He first burst onto the scene almost a decade ago with Antalyaspor, his hometown club.

His direct, quick running and keen eye for goal were enough to convince Besiktas of his quality in 2006, even if he was still a little raw. The ability was there, but he was still far from the finished product, despite his talent.

Yet again, though, he failed to take his opportunity at the top, making a paltry six league appearances before going on loan to Eskisehirspor. He failed to shine at the Ataturk Stadyumu, but seemingly did enough to earn a move to Trabzonspor.

Fatih Terim’s side has been dealt a favourable draw in the form of a distinctly beatable Schalke, who have collapsed since their fantastic opening two months of the season. And with the arrival of two huge names at the club, he will be particularly eager to assert himself as the top dog in Istanbul.

 

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