In an exclusive interview with Sky, Turkish forward Yusuf Yaz?c? shared his belief that Turkey will excel at the 2024 European Championship in Germany, stating it’s like playing on home soil, giving them an advantage.
The 27-year-old, currently playing for Lille in Ligue 1, has scored 12 goals and provided 4 assists across domestic and European competitions this season. After scoring, he often celebrates by standing with his legs together and arms raised skyward, forming a “Y” shape with his body, a gesture that has been emulated by his teammates, turning into a trend in the French league.
What does the celebration signify? Yaz?c? explained, “When the team and I decided on a celebration, the idea came up to form a ‘Y’ with my body (due to my name). Initially, I did it alone, then I noticed my teammates joining in, and after a while, it became a tradition, with fans also participating. Young people sent me videos from all over the world celebrating their goals like this – it just naturally evolved and continued.”
Though not a household name, with only 3 goals in 43 appearances for the Turkish national team, Yaz?c? credits his recent success to manager Paulo Fonseca. “I feel more mature, and Fonseca has been instrumental. He trusts me as a person, which is crucial. He’s taught me a lot tactically, explaining how to pressure opponents and attack. And Fonseca is the kind of coach who makes me enjoy defending; as an attacking player, I used to wait for balls in the final third, but now I love running and defending – I’ve made significant strides defensively this season.”
Looking ahead to Euro 2024, Yaz?c? said, “The 2020 Euros were one of the biggest disappointments of my life. Losing is disappointing, naturally. We had a great squad, but sometimes things don’t go as planned. This time around, people will see a team fighting until the final whistle. Playing in Germany, with a large Turkish community, feels like a home advantage. We know the expectations are high, and we aim to meet them, erasing those previous tournament memories!”
Recently linked with some Premier League clubs, Yaz?c? prefers to focus on the upcoming tournament: “I’m aware of the interest from some clubs. But right now, my priority is to have a successful tournament with the national team!”