Galatasaray's new signing Batrakov: 'I'm recognized more in Istanbul than in Russia'

Young star Aleksey Batrakov, signed by Galatasaray this season from Lokomotiv Moscow for 25 million euros, spoke to reporters during the Russia national team's training camp. He opened up about his new life in Istanbul and the changes he has experienced since the transfer. The player noted that he had spent 15 years at the same club within the same structure, making this sudden shift far from easy.

Discussing the language barrier, Batrakov said he has only learned basic words so far, such as 'hello', 'okay' and 'good morning'. He explained that he is trying to quickly adjust to his new surroundings but is currently focusing more on English. According to him, English currently offers a more practical way to communicate in his daily life.

According to reports, Batrakov revealed that he is recognized far more often in Istanbul than back home in Russia, drawing a striking comparison. In Moscow, while playing for Lokomotiv, he could walk around comfortably without sunglasses or a cap without being noticed. In Istanbul, however, he said people recognize him frequently even when wearing both.

The young footballer attributed this to the immense passion for football in the city and the country as a whole. He noted that everyone around him seems deeply interested in the sport, something he finds both surprising and something he must get used to. His comments also reflect the strong attention Galatasaray fans have shown toward the new signing.