Galatasaray player Ismail Jakobs appeared as a guest on Florian Malburg's YouTube channel, where he discussed his situation at the club and the team's objectives. Jakobs stated that his second championship felt more special and shared the goals of the team under Okan Buruk this season. This interview comes after the team's leading start to the 2026-27 season. Galatasaray sits top of the Süper Lig with 7 points from 3 games, having scored 9 goals and conceded 4.
Ismail Jakobs reflected on the place of his second championship in his career. The player said, "İKİNCİ ŞAMPİYONLUK BENİM İÇİN DAHA ÖZELDİ" (The second championship was more special for me). He explained the reason was his ability to show himself in good form all year and contribute more to the team. This success is also reflected in the team's current standings position. Galatasaray managed to finish the third week of the league undefeated and at the top on goal difference.
Jakobs expressed that his adaptation period to Galatasaray passed faster than expected. He said adapting to a new place usually takes half a season or a year, but he currently feels great with the club, the team, and the coaching staff. This comfort positively reflects on his on-field performance. He has secured a solid place within the team's squad structure.
Turkish fan culture and league targets
Ismail Jakobs described Turkish fans as the most passionate fans in the world. He said he is very happy living in Istanbul and in his home, and that the support and love from the fans is very nice. According to him, the combination of star players in the league and this magnificent fan culture will improve quality and make the league more exciting.
He emphasized that Galatasaray's goal this season is clearly the championship. Jakobs said he believes the Süper Lig will be very exciting this year. He added that their aim in the Champions League is to go further than the previous season. The team's next important appointment on the fixtures list is a home match against 7th-placed Rizespor on December 6, 2026.
Sharing his views on manager Okan Buruk, Jakobs expressed his respect for the coach. Okan Buruk made a significant statement about his own future. Buruk said, "Okan Buruk, bir gün kulüpten ayrıldığında insanlar o zaman 'Adam aslında ne kadar büyük başarılara imza attı' diye farkına varacak." (When Okan Buruk leaves the club one day, people will then realize 'Actually, what great achievements this man accomplished.' Then he will definitely become a legend as a coach.)
Buruk implied that he is not yet deemed worthy of legendary status because he is currently actively serving. He also highlighted his great respect for Fatih Terim, stating that this respect is felt by the fans, the country, and the club. These statements make one think about his place within Galatasaray's managerial tradition.
The team has made a strong start to the season with 9 goals scored and 4 conceded (+5 difference). Their recent three-match form is recorded as WWD (Win, Win, Draw). Ismail Jakobs and his teammates aim to maintain this form until the Rizespor match on December 6th.
