Galatasaray have initiated a special pre-season fitness program for defender Abdülkerim Bardakcı. The technical staff aim to raise the player's physical conditioning levels.
The experienced centre-back did not reach optimal physical shape during the summer training camp. Consequently, the club has planned individual training sessions for Bardakcı alongside the team's regular workouts. The program's primary goal is to boost the 30-year-old's athletic capacity and help him adapt more quickly to match tempo.
Abdülkerim Bardakcı has been a key part of Galatasaray's defence since his transfer from Ankaragücü in 2023. Last season, he featured in 28 Süper Lig matches, scoring 2 goals. However, the technical team identified that the player did not fully meet the expected metrics in pre-season physical tests. This finding led to the creation of a targeted intervention plan.
As visible on the club's squad page, Bardakcı is currently one of the most experienced centre-backs in the team. His attainment of peak physical condition is vital for the defensive line's solidity. The program will be closely monitored by coaches and updated based on the player's progress.
The designed program focuses on improving Bardakcı's endurance, agility, and strength parameters. The technical staff expect these workouts to increase the player's mobility and combativeness on the pitch. The plan is integrated into the team's overall training schedule. Bardakcı will undertake individual sessions with fitness coaches at specific times, in addition to group training.
This approach allows for the personalisation of the player's load management. The program's core objective is to enable Bardakcı to maintain a higher level of physical performance throughout the season. The conditioning team will track progress through regular assessments and make necessary adjustments.
Galatasaray are planning to start the season with an ambitious squad. In defence, alongside Bardakcı, names like Victor Nelsson and Kaan Ayhan are also present. However, Bardakcı's physical condition could affect rotation, especially during a congested fixture list. The manager and his team are working to get the player back to full fitness as soon as possible.
A look at the club's fixtures page shows that both league and European cup matches are set to begin in the coming weeks. Every player needs to be in top condition for this intense schedule. Bardakcı's program will play a key role in preparing him for this tempo. Also, the standings page highlights the importance of a solid defence for the team's league position.
The initial results of the program are expected to be visible in the upcoming Süper Lig matchday. As Galatasaray prepare for their first official matches of the season, Abdülkerim Bardakcı will be working to regain his best form through this special plan. The player's current contract runs until the summer of 2027.
