Turkish football chief claims Liverpool are ‘not what they used to be’ after Champions League draw
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Galatasaray's sporting director Ibrahim Haciosmanoglu has described Liverpool as a "dream opponent" ahead of their 2025-26 UEFA Champions League clash. The Turkish giants have been drawn to face Liverpool in the new Swiss model format of the competition, which involves 36 teams playing eight matches against varying seeding pots. Galatasaray will host Liverpool in Istanbul, a fixture anticipated as one of the season’s biggest spectacles due to the city's passionate football culture and the club's storied European legacy.
Haciosmanoglu expressed confidence in Galatasaray's ability to challenge Liverpool on home turf, highlighting the team's ambition to disrupt the European order and progress deep into the tournament. The Turkish club also faces other European heavyweights such as Borussia Dortmund and Ajax at home, while traveling to Manchester City, Villarreal, Club Brugge, and Union SG, illustrating the tough road ahead.
He stated that playing Liverpool provides an excellent benchmark for Galatasaray’s quality and growth, emphasizing that the club is well-prepared to meet the challenge. The management hopes to capitalize on Istanbul’s electric atmosphere and Galatasaray’s recent improvements to make a notable impact.
Meanwhile, Liverpool sees Galatasaray as a formidable opponent. Despite not being as dominant as in their early 2000s peak, Galatasaray remains a tough team, especially on home ground. The Turkish side boasts a strong attack, including world-class striker Victor Osimhen, making the fixture a tactical and physical test for the Reds.
This Champions League season offers both clubs a high-profile duel, with significant stakes in the new competition format that intensifies every match's importance. Fans can expect thrilling, high-energy encounters between two veteran European teams eager to assert their continent-wide credentials.
PP