Two clubs looking to return to form will do battle today in a friendly between Galatasaray and Atletico Madrid. The match scheduled for 2 p.m. ET will be held at Izmir Ataturk Stadium in Izmir and can be live streamed here free.
Having seen a raid of his talent, manager Diego Simeone is in danger of losing yet another integral part of his team. Attacking midfielder Arda Turan has been linked with several clubs for a potential summer transfer, but the 27-year-old is adamant that he is already home.
"The fans shouted 'Captain!' It's an honor," he said at a press conference on Tuesday (via Inside Spanish Football). "But I'm only one person and we have to think about the game [against Galatasaray] too. For us, it's a very important game and we have to win all the games we have left. I'm working hard. I'm with the best club in Spain. I'm part of this system. The young Turkish players should leave [like I did] in order to develop their technique."
"We're here to play and support the Turkish people who have suffered in Soma," he added. "Things are not quickly forgotten in Turkey. I'm a very emotional person and I'm going to play for them too."
The question remains: Just how long will Turan play for Atletico Madrid?
Tactical Preview
Player to Watch: Despite losing his their leading striker, Atletico Madrid enter today's match with a suitable replacement in the form of Mario Mandzukic. The 28-year-old made 30 appearances for Bayern Munich last season, posting a club-best 18 goals in addition to his four assists.
Galatasaray's Projected Lineup (4-2-3-1): Eray; Veysel, Chedjou, Hakan, Telles; Selcuk, Melo; Olcan, Emre, Bruma; Burak
Atletico Madrid's Projected Lineup (4-2-3-1): Moyà; Juanfran, Miranda, Godín, Siqueira; Tiago, Suárez; Gabi, Koke, Arda; Mandzukic
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