Sané: The Level of the Bundesliga Isn't That High; The Süper Lig Is Quite High; Hopes to Play in the 2026 World Cup

Camel Live exclusive interview with Galatasaray star Leroy Sané.

Mr. Sané, Germans have their own opinions on you—whether it's about the failed contract extension at Bayern Munich, the transfer to Galatasaray, your playing style, or your national team situation. Why are you so controversial?

I'm not sure, but I feel it's largely because they think I'm arrogant. But no, it's a combination of factors: I'm an attacking player with a unique style.

Of course, I haven't always been able to consistently show my potential. Additionally, many people don't understand my personality; they think I'm arrogant. But that's not the point.

It's more about confidence. In sports, everyone can have their own opinions—that's part of its charm. I can handle that, but most importantly, the opinions of the people around me matter to me. Sometimes, it's really interesting to see what the outside world says about me.

In the Champions League match against Liverpool, you sat on the bench for over 90 minutes; in the derby against Beşiktaş, you were initially a substitute too; later, you scored twice to help the team beat Istanbul. Now you're back in the starting lineup. How do you view this period?

I've been playing football for a while, so I know what you mean by "emotional rollercoaster." I really wanted to play in those two games, but we had the derby coming up.

Coach Okan Buruk welcomed me warmly, and we communicate closely. He encouraged me to keep believing in myself. During the international break, I had good training sessions, everything felt smooth, and I've adapted to the new environment. Things are much better now.

In the Champions League, your team beat Liverpool but also lost 1-5 to Frankfurt. Stars like Osimhen, Icardi, Gündogan, and you play for Galatasaray. Do you think you can go further in the Champions League?

We have a strong team, so we can achieve something special. We have big goals—at least reaching the play-offs. As for what happens after that, we'll wait and see...

Would you like to face your former Bayern teammates in the Champions League?

I'd love to play against Bayern in the Champions League. It would mean a lot to me; I've played against Man City for Bayern and against Schalke 04 for Man City.

Bayern had a winning start to the season. What do you think of your old club?

I still follow the games and am very happy with the current start: I hope they can keep it up. I stay in touch with teammates, including my old friends Phonzy (Davies), Jamal (Musiala), Michael (Olise), and also Jo (Kimmich) and Leon (Goretzka)—I've known them longer than the younger players (laughs). Our connection is still good.

Why didn't you stay at Bayern in the end?

The closer I got to the final decision, the more I thought about it. I wanted to start a new chapter. Galatasaray has big goals and a lot of pressure. So I finally chose to join Galatasaray.

Bayern wanted to pay you less than before, while Galatasaray offered you a higher salary. Is this a form of recognition for you?

The contract terms themselves weren't decisive, but they did play a role. But I also gave up part of my salary when I moved to Bayern during the 2020 pandemic.

For me, it's about what I still want to experience in my career. The opportunity at Galatasaray appealed to me.

Your transfer surprised many, partly because the Turkish league isn't a top league. Some say you "made a mistake" at Bayern and went too far. What do you want to say to the critics?

Everyone has their own opinions, which is normal. It's my own decision, and I think the Turkish club's goals are attractive; it's a new challenge. Galatasaray is world-famous with many fans.

Moreover, the level of the Bundesliga isn't as high as its reputation in Germany. The overall level of the Süper Lig is high, like Stuttgart's recent 0-1 loss to Fenerbahçe in the Europa League. I'm surprised by the physical intensity and pace of the Süper Lig.

You can't win easily here. And finally, I can still play for the national team—by participating in the Champions League.

Nagelsmann doesn't seem to agree with you on this?

Julian has known me for a long time; he coached me at Bayern and the national team. We've spoken twice on the phone since I moved to Galatasaray, and the communication was smooth and honest. Over the past few years, Julian trusted me a lot and always supported me. He knows this is a new environment for me and that I need time to adapt.

Everything needs to stabilize gradually, and we've always communicated openly about that. So I'm not angry or frustrated. We talked about how I feel.

So how do you feel exactly?

I should use my strengths and release energy in games. That's what Julian asks of me. If I can do that, I know I can return to the national team. Julian will judge me fairly, and I really appreciate that. I'm very grateful for everything Julian has done for me.

Do you expect to be called up in November? Is it harder to get selected for the national team as a Süper Lig player?

I hope to be called up again. Regarding the Süper Lig: the Portuguese national team often has players with contracts at Saudi Arabian clubs.

Have you received offers from Saudi Arabian clubs?

Yes, they were interested. But that's not where my ambition lies.

How important is the 2026 World Cup to you?

Very, very important. It will likely be my last World Cup. After all, I'll be 34 in 2030. It's the biggest event in football! I'm eager to play in it; it's my biggest personal goal. If I can, it will be a dream come true for me.

Lennart Kal, who is 12 years younger than you, also dreams of participating! What was your impression of him in Munich?

Charlemagne (laughs)! His left foot is incredible, an absolute weapon. You can see it in training: he puts the ball, and it goes straight into the corner. It always reminds me of Arjen Robben.

Lenny is a great kid, only 17, with a bright future. His talent is excellent, but he needs time to gain experience. I hope Lenny stays healthy and enjoys his football. Then all doors will open for him.