In addition, Galatasaray expects new and expanded sponsorship contracts – including with the Turkish group of companies “Pasifik Holding”, which is said to have doubled their commitment from 40 million euros.
Although only a small part of revenue has been generated so far, the expected funds have already been invested in new players. Critics warn that not all funds could be secured at the due date of liabilities. So the Turkish club plays a game with high risk.
Because Galatasaray’s transfer offensive is basically a bet – on sporting success, international visibility and increasing income. Even the Champions League final is communicated as a realistic goal. “Galatasaray is hungry for Europe,” said Vice President Metin Öztürk recently with a view to the “premier class”. Coach Okan Buruk emphasized: “Our fans expect success in Europe this year. We dream of the Champions League.”
If the plan works, the investments could pay off quickly: a Champions League quarter-finals not only brings TV and premium money, but also makes the club attractive for global sponsors. If the project fails, the debt mountain threatens to grow. Galatasaray’s debt was, according to its own statements in November last year, around 395.59 million euros. According to “Transfermarkt.de”, the total debt of the three major Istanbul clubs (with Fenerbahçe and Besiktas) is 1.14 billion euros.
One thing is certain: The pressure on Leroy Sané, Victor Osimhen & Co. is huge. The Turkish champion of the past three years has made a shop window – now the stars also have to deliver internationally. In the Süper Lig, the new season began on Friday with the game at Gaziatep FK. All eyes were on the Galatasaray-and the team underlined the club’s new course with a 3-0 win at least for the time being.