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Galatasaray has claimed its 2024/25 Turkish Super Lig title, securing the club’s long-sought fifth star and earning direct qualification to the UEFA Champions League under its revamped format.

This achievement not only reaffirms the team’s domestic dominance but also unlocks unprecedented financial rewards, with total revenues expected to exceed ₺5 billion ($130 million).

Among the most anticipated outcomes of this financial boost is the potential permanent transfer of Victor Osimhen, who joined Galatasaray on loan at the start of the season.

The Nigerian striker delivered a sensational performance, scoring 36 goals and providing 8 assists in 40 appearances, becoming the highest-scoring player in the club’s history for a single season.

Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray and his daughter Haly celebrate winning the 2024-2025 Turkish Super Lig title after their 3-0 victory against Bellona Kayserispor in week 36 at RAMS Park in Istanbul, Türkiye, on May 18, 2025. (AA Photo)

His contract includes a €75 million ($84.3 million) release clause—an amount that once appeared beyond Galatasaray’s reach. But with record revenues now in hand, the club may finally have the financial power to secure Osimhen on a permanent deal.

Galatasaray’s 5th-star triumph unlocks massive revenue streams

From the Turkish Football Federation alone, Galatasaray is set to receive over ₺300 million ($7.7 million), stemming from a mix of performance- bonuses, historical title shares, broadcast rights, and additional rewards for finishing among the top six teams in the Super Lig.

The financial impact of qualifying directly for the UEFA Champions League is even more substantial. Under the tournament’s revised format, Galatasaray is guaranteed an €18.62 million ($20.9 million) payout simply for entering the group stage—a sum that converts to approximately ₺800 million.

On top of that, the club stands to gain further performance-based rewards, including €2.1 million ($2.36 million) for each group-stage win, €700,000 ($789,000) for every draw, and escalating bonuses for advancing through the knockout rounds.

UEFA Champions League trophy displayed during the group stage draw ceremony, accessed on May 19, 2025. (AA Photo)

Reaching the final and winning the trophy could yield an additional €25 million ($28.1 million), making European competition a highly lucrative prospect.

Commercial boom lifts Galatasaray, but debt still looms

This financial upswing has also been mirrored in domestic commercial activity. The fifth star has energized the fan base, pushing season ticket revenues beyond ₺2 billion ($51.5 million), while the release of new five-star jerseys and commemorative 25th championship merchandise has led to unprecedented retail demand across GS Store outlets.

Galatasaray wins the 2024-2025 Turkish Super Lig title following their 3-0 victory over Bellona Kayserispor in week 36 at RAMS Park in Istanbul, Turkiye, on May 18, 2025. (AA Photo)

Galatasaray’s growing profile has likewise strengthened its appeal to sponsors. Advertising and sponsorship revenues, which previously hovered around €80 million ($89.9 million), are projected to rise in the coming season.

The club has already signed a high-profile front-of-jersey sponsorship agreement with Next Level, valued at €10 million ($11.2 million).

However, Galatasaray’s financial outlook is not without its burdens. Despite the significant inflow of revenue, the club continues to carry a substantial debt load. According to the latest figures, Galatasaray holds €324.6 million ($365.53 million) in total liabilities, making it the second most indebted football club in Türkiye, trailing only archrival Fenerbahce.

May 19, 2025 04:42 PM GMT+03:00