Hakan Calhanoglu is a talented player, one who can create something out of nothing in the final third.
In case you haven’t heard about him, he’s a 23-year-old attacking midfielder who plays for Turkey and Bayer Leverkusen. Many experts consider Calhanoglu as one of the top talents in the Bundesliga. And some believe he could be one of the best playmakers in the world sooner rather than later.
But sometimes images speak louder than words, so here is one of his many highlights videos across the internet. His touch in the final third is simply spectacular. And his free kicks are an authentic masterpiece.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3XA4EwLcWE&w=640&h=360
Considering his talent, it’s not a surprise that several teams have enquired about him in the past. FC Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester United have been some of the squads that have tried to sign the coveted playmaker. However, he seems comfortable in Leverkusen. And even though he had to pay a four-month ban at the end of last season, he is likely to remain in Germany next season.
At the moment, it seems AC Milan are relatively close to sign him. Reports have indicated both parties have agreed to personal terms, so everything would be decided by Leverkusen. But they would make a huge mistake in selling their star playmaker. Leverkusen needs him, and if they wait another year, there is no doubt his value will increase considerably. We shouldn’t even say this, but the team who signs him will end up getting a future star at a bargain price.
The Turkish playmaker seems to have the whole package. He’s creative on the ball, and knows how to play off of it as well. He has pace to burn, and can beat opposing playmakers with either speed or skill. His passing ability is excellent. His vision is off the charts. And even though we already mentioned his free-kick ability, it is worth watching it again:
Yes, he can strike the ball cleanly. He has a strong shot, but can also place the ball anywhere he wants. There aren’t many players with that combination of skill in the world. And if we add the fact that he’s only 23 years old. it means he has several years left before he can reach his prime.
It won’t be long until we see him in a bigger team, or even a bigger league. Or maybe in a World Cup with Turkey, something that could happen as soon as next year. The one thing that’s clear is that he’s one of the top talents in the world. Even if he doesn’t get the recognition he deserves from the rest of the soccer world.