Embracing the beautiful game with a rare passion, Gökhan Inler’s football journey has been a compelling one. Traversing the terrains of Switzerland, Italy, England, and Turkey, this seasoned veteran shares valuable insights into his illustrious career, the legendary players he’s encountered, and his love for the sport that transcends borders.
- Gökhan Inler has had an illustrious career, playing in Switzerland, Italy, England, and Turkey, and has shared insights into his journey.
- Inler played a major role in the arrival of players like Mario Balotelli and has provided guidance to Dries Mertens.
- The veteran player draws parallels between Lavezzi’s playing style and that of football legend Maradona.
From humble beginnings in Switzerland to a successful stint in Turkey, Gökhan Inler’s football journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The 38-year-old football veteran has been an integral part of Adana Demirspor’s success this season, guiding them to fourth in the Turkish league standings. With a unique blend of determination, discipline, and football love that has seen him through the highs and lows, Inler’s football journey is a remarkable one.
As he looks back on his illustrious career, Inler speaks with humility about his early years in the sport. From a disciplined lifestyle of abstaining from alcohol and maintaining a rigorous sleep schedule to his unwavering determination and discipline, Inler credits his father’s influence as the force behind his success.
While still fostering a deep love for Swiss football, Inler also discusses the opportunity he had to play for the Turkish selection. He recounts his initial disappointment at not being called up as a player anymore, followed by a sense of appreciation for Switzerland’s respect and interest, which ultimately led him to join the Swiss selection.
With fond memories of winning two Swiss championship titles with FC Zurich in 2006 and 2007, Inler talks about his time under Lucien Favre, who patiently nurtured him to fit into the team’s tactical vision. He also nostalgically recalls the incredible end to the 2005-2006 season and the thrill of winning the championship title in an unforgettable match against Basel.
Moving forward to his time in Italy, Inler speaks with admiration about his teammates at Udinese, like Alexis Sánchez, who demonstrated exceptional skill and speed on the field. He also expresses his gratitude towards Francesco Guidolin, the coach who believed in his potential and helped shape his career.
When the discussion transitions to his time at Napoli, Inler fondly reminisces about the excellent team he was part of. He recounts the arrival of Mario Balotelli, a player who, despite his controversies, demonstrated sheer brilliance on the field. At Napoli, Inler also had the opportunity to guide emerging talent like Dries Mertens, sharing his wisdom and experience with the future star.
Inler notably draws parallels between his former teammate Ezequiel Lavezzi and football legend Diego Maradona, indicating how the former’s playing style reminded him of Maradona’s magic. The camaraderie shared amongst players, the respect for the coach, and the enthusiasm of the Neapolitan crowd are aspects of Napoli that Inler reflects on with fondness.
The highlight of Gökhan Inler’s football journey was perhaps his stint in England with Leicester City. Despite playing a limited number of matches, he was part of the legendary team that achieved the unthinkable — winning the English Premier League title in 2016. It was an experience that Inler cherishes as one of the defining moments of his football career.
Today, as he plays his heart out in Turkey, Inler continues to inspire with his relentless love for the game and his willingness to guide younger players. His career serves as a testament to his enduring dedication and his unwavering belief in the magic of football. Gökhan Inler’s football journey is a tale of grit, determination, and unparalleled love for the beautiful game.
As he now thrives in Turkey, Gökhan Inler’s football journey continues to inspire young aspiring players worldwide. With his rich experience and immense passion, he is not just a player, but a mentor, a guide, and a beacon of dedication in the world of football. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the sport for years to come.