Inter Milan & Turkey Superstar Recalls Offers His View On 2024: “Very Good Year”
Inter Milan star midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu recently took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, reflecting on the incredible 2024 calendar year during the Istanbul Okan University 2024 Sports Awards. The 31-year-old Turkish international had every reason to look back with pride, as it was a year filled with remarkable achievements both at the club and international level. Under the guidance of Simone Inzaghi, Calhanoglu played a pivotal role in Inter Milan’s long-awaited 20th Serie A title, finishing the campaign as the league’s top-scoring midfielder. His contributions extended beyond domestic success, leading Inter to the Champions League round of 16, where they narrowly missed out to Atletico Madrid. This blend of personal and team achievements made 2024 a standout year for Calhanoglu, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
A Memorable Domestic Campaign
Calhanoglu’s 2024 season with Inter Milan was nothing short of spectacular. His performance was instrumental in the Nerazzurri’s march to the Serie A title, a feat that had eluded them for many years. As the club’s best-scoring midfielder, Calhanoglu’s consistent goal contributions from midfield provided the team with a crucial edge. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and create scoring opportunities for his teammates made him an indispensable asset to Inzaghi’s战术. Beyond his goal-scoring prowess, Calhanoglu’s leadership and technical skills were evident in every match, contributing to Inter’s resilience and dominance throughout the season. The Champions League run, although ending in the round of 16, added another layer of achievement to his already impressive year.
Euro 2024: A Landmark for Turkish Football
Calhanoglu’s impact extended beyond the club, as he played a crucial role in Turkey’s best European championship performance since 2008. Leading his national team to the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, Calhanoglu demonstrated his prowess on the international stage. His leadership and technical excellence were pivotal in Turkey’s impressive campaign, which saw the team secure several notable victories. This achievement was not only a personal triumph for Calhanoglu but also a significant milestone for Turkish football, reigniting hopes and aspirations for future success. The team’s performance underlined the growing strength and competitiveness of Turkish football on the international stage.
Looking Forward: Ambitions for the World Cup
Despite the success of 2024, Calhanoglu is not one to rest on his laurels. He is determined to push for even greater achievements, particularly in the realm of international football. Turkey’s last appearance in the FIFA World Cup was in 2002, and Calhanoglu is keen to change that. "Our team can do even better," he stated, emphasizing the potential of the current generation of Turkish players. The midfielder’s ambition is to lead Turkey back to the grandest international stage, a goal that he believes is within reach. His determination and vision are inspiring, and his return to fitness after a muscle injury in January 2024 is a positive sign for both club and country.
Overcoming Challenges and Maintaining Focus
The 2024/25 season has not been without its challenges for Calhanoglu. Recurring injuries, particularly a muscle problem that kept him out of action for most of January, have impacted his form. However, his resilience and commitment to fitness have seen him return to full health, ready to contribute at his best. Inter Milan, aware of his value, will need Calhanoglu at his peak for the upcoming fixtures, including the highly anticipated clash with Juventus in Turin. The previous 4-4 draw at the San Siro highlighted the intensity and rivalry between the two teams, and Calhanoglu’s performance will be crucial in determining the outcome of this match. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under pressure is a testament to his mental and physical fortitude.
A Bright Future for Calhanoglu and Turkish Football
As Calhanoglu continues to set his sights on new challenges, the future looks promising for both the player and Turkish football. His leadership and technical skills are not only vital for Inter Milan but also for the national team. The success of 2024 has laid a strong foundation for further achievements, and Calhanoglu’s ambition to lead Turkey back to the World Cup is a clear indication of his determination to excel. With his experience and talent, there is no doubt that Calhanoglu will continue to inspire and drive both Inter Milan and the Turkish national team to new heights. The coming years are sure to be filled with more memorable moments, making Calhanoglu a key figure in the world of football for years to come.
