The Biggest Stars to Have Played in the Süper Lig
From Gheorghe Hagi and Roberto Carlos to Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto'o and now Mohamed Salah, the Süper Lig has featured some of the biggest stars in world soccer.
The Süper Lig has built part of its international reputation by attracting players who previously starred on the biggest stages in European soccer. Among them, Galatasaray has been one of the clubs most successful at bringing major names to Turkey.
Gheorghe Hagi holds a special place in that history. The legendary Romanian midfielder arrived after representing clubs such as Real Madrid and Barcelona, and eventually became one of the biggest icons of the Istanbul club.
Decades later, Galatasaray once again made headlines in the transfer market with Didier Drogba and Wesley Sneijder. The two played together on a team that reached the Champions League quarterfinals in 2013. The Dutchman stayed for several seasons and became a key figure at the club, while the Ivorian brought his experience and goalscoring ability.
Roberto Carlos, Van Persie and Fenerbahçe's Stars
Fenerbahçe has also played a major role in attracting international stars. One of its most spectacular signings was Roberto Carlos, a World Cup winner with Brazil and a Real Madrid legend.
Years later came Robin van Persie. The Dutch striker had previously starred for Arsenal and Manchester United before continuing his career in Turkey.
Other internationally recognized players such as Nani, Mesut Özil and Diego Ribas also represented Fenerbahçe.
Salah Joins the Collection of Stars
That history continues today with Mohamed Salah, who left Liverpool in August 2026 to become one of Trabzonspor's biggest signings.
The Egyptian arrived after nine seasons at Anfield, where he became a legend of the English club and won major trophies including the Premier League and Champions League.
His arrival further raised the Süper Lig's international profile and brought one of the most important players of his generation to Turkey.
Other clubs have also featured global stars. Samuel Eto'o represented Antalyaspor and Konyaspor, while Beşiktaş had players such as Guti, Ricardo Quaresma and Mario Gómez in its ranks.
Different eras and different clubs, but one constant remains: the Süper Lig has attracted World Cup winners, Champions League winners and stars who defined generations.
Key Takeaways
- Hagi, Drogba and Sneijder left their mark at Galatasaray.
- Roberto Carlos and Van Persie were major stars for Fenerbahçe.
- Samuel Eto'o represented Antalyaspor and Konyaspor.
- Beşiktaş featured stars such as Guti, Quaresma and Mario Gómez.
- Mohamed Salah currently plays for Trabzonspor after leaving Liverpool in 2026.
