Meet the Manager Set to Be the Best in the World: Could He Replace Ancelotti at Real Madrid

Borrusia Dortmund's Turkish coach Nuri SAhin gave a nod to Real Madrid in an answer after being asked which team was better, Los Blancos or Barcelona, after defeating both in the Champions League. The coach who is called to be the best in the world showed his madridismo.

Nuri Şahin: A Midfield Maestro’s Journey Through European Football

Nuri Şahin, after retiring from professional football, transitioned into coaching, aiming to share his deep understanding of the game. In 2021, he took on his first managerial role at Turkish club Antalyaspor. Despite his relatively short coaching career, Şahin has quickly demonstrated his passion for developing young talent and implementing a dynamic style of play. His playing experience at top clubs like Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid, combined with his tactical knowledge, gives him a unique perspective in the dugout. Şahin's coaching journey is still in its early stages, but he has the potential to make a significant impact in Turkish football.

Nuri Şahin, a Turkish professional footballer, is remembered for his elegant passing, vision, and ability to control the tempo of a game from midfield. Over the years, Şahin has played for several top European clubs, leaving his mark in various leagues. From his early rise at Borussia Dortmund to his stints in Spain, England, and Turkey, Şahin's career has been filled with highs, challenges, and moments of brilliance.

Born on September 5, 1988, in Ludwigsburg, Germany, Şahin grew up in a Turkish immigrant family. His footballing journey began at a young age, and by the time he was 16, he had already joined Borussia Dortmund’s youth academy. Şahin quickly rose through the ranks, making his Bundesliga debut for Dortmund at just 17 years old, becoming the youngest player in the club’s history to appear in a competitive match. His performances in his early years at Dortmund showcased his potential as a central midfielder with exceptional technique, passing range, and maturity beyond his years.

Şahin's breakout season came in 2010-2011 when he played a crucial role in Borussia Dortmund's first Bundesliga title in nine years under the guidance of coach Jürgen Klopp. As the team’s playmaker, Şahin was central to Dortmund’s fast, high-pressing style of play. His ability to dictate the rhythm of the game, combined with his excellent vision and passing accuracy, made him one of the best midfielders in the Bundesliga that season. His performances earned him a spot in the Turkish national team, and he became a regular in the squad, gaining recognition for his intelligent play and leadership on the field.

In 2011, following his success with Dortmund, Şahin moved to Spain, signing with the prestigious Real Madrid. His transfer was seen as a step towards his development, as he joined one of the biggest clubs in the world. However, despite high expectations, Şahin struggled to secure a consistent place in the starting lineup at Madrid under coach José Mourinho. He made limited appearances during his time at the club, and after a year, he was loaned out to Liverpool in 2012, hoping to revitalize his career.

At Liverpool, Şahin faced further challenges. His spell at the Premier League club was short-lived, as he struggled to adapt to the team’s style of play under Brendan Rodgers. Despite some promising moments, Şahin’s time in England was not as successful as he had hoped. He was loaned out again, this time to his former club, Borussia Dortmund, in 2014. His return to Dortmund saw him regain his best form as he played a key role in the midfield once again. However, injuries began to plague his career, and he was not able to replicate the same level of influence he once had.

In the latter stages of his career, Şahin moved back to Turkey, where he joined Süper Lig club Fenerbahçe in 2018. His experience and leadership were invaluable to the team, and although his playing time was limited by injuries, Şahin continued to offer glimpses of his technical brilliance. He retired from professional football in 2021, bringing an end to a career that spanned over a decade and saw him play for some of Europe’s most prestigious clubs.

Nuri Şahin’s legacy is one of a talented midfielder whose potential was not fully realized due to injuries and a series of misfortunes at key moments in his career. Despite this, his technical ability, vision, and intelligence on the ball earned him a place among the top midfielders of his generation. His time at Borussia Dortmund, in particular, will be remembered as the peak of his career, as he was an instrumental part of one of the most exciting teams in European football. Today, Şahin is remembered as a player who, when at his best, could control a game like few others.