In the competitive world of European football management, Turkish professionals are a rare sight. Okan Özkan, a former football coordinator for Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, is on a mission to change that narrative. Currently serving at Polish club Pogon Szczecin, Özkan is building a career path that he hopes will eventually lead him to one of Europe's elite leagues, carrying his national pride with him.
Özkan's move to Poland was a calculated step. After leaving Fenerbahçe, he sought a secure environment for his first international role. The presence of CEO Tan Kesler, who has a Turkish background, and owner Alex Haditaghi, who has business ties to Turkey, provided the stability he needed. "Being a Turk born and raised in Turkey, working in such positions abroad is truly very difficult," Özkan explained. "You can see Portuguese, Spanish, English people in every club, but Turks are almost non-existent. That's why I am very happy to represent my country abroad."
At Pogon Szczecin, Özkan oversees player recruitment for the first team, B team, and women's team. His approach is firmly rooted in data analytics, a philosophy shared by head coach Thomas Tomasberg, who previously won the Danish championship with Midtjylland. "We have established a structure where we can make quick decisions, work with data in transfers, and try to compete while also selling players," Özkan stated. This synergy has been crucial in implementing a modern, evidence-based football strategy.
The club's immediate goal is to secure a spot in UEFA competitions. With only a few matches left in the Polish Ekstraklasa season, the race is incredibly tight. "If we win the remaining matches, we have a chance to participate in UEFA organizations," Özkan noted. "It's really a very interesting season. Until two weeks ago, all teams mathematically had a chance to be relegated and to become champions." This parity highlights the competitive nature of the league Pogon Szczecin is navigating.
Özkan's work extends beyond immediate results. He is actively planning for the future, building a scouting network and creating transfer lists for the upcoming season. "We are trying to make these processes as data-supported as possible," he said. "Data is very important today. Our coach's arrival from Midtjylland, where they are very intertwined with data, made me comfortable. Because not every coach is open to these topics."
The Polish league itself is gaining stature. Özkan pointed out the high stadium attendance and growing football culture, noting that Poland has risen to 12th in the UEFA country coefficient rankings. This environment, he believes, is ideal for Turkish players looking for a first step into European football. He already facilitated the signing of defender Attila Szalai, a player familiar to Turkish fans, who has settled in well and is performing strongly.
Looking further ahead, Özkan harbors significant ambitions. "I want to represent my country in the top five leagues," he declared. "I have had an interest in Italian culture and football since childhood. I am not in a hurry. When the time comes, I will be there in the best and most prepared way possible." This long-term vision underscores his commitment to elevating the profile of Turkish football executives on the continental stage.
Reflecting on his former club, Fenerbahçe, Özkan offered a measured analysis of their challenging season. He emphasized the importance of aligning a club's playing philosophy with the right players and coach within a given budget. "I think there was no budget this season and harmony could not be achieved on the field," he commented. "In summary, I can say that the squad was insufficient, incompatible, and payments were above their value." Despite this, he acknowledged that Fenerbahçe's mathematical chance for the league title remains, a testament to the unpredictable nature of football.
Regarding Fenerbahçe's recent parting of ways with manager Domenico Tedesco, Özkan expressed understanding. While praising Tedesco's calm demeanor and protective stance towards his players, he recognized the club's decision given the points deficit and cup elimination. "I hope that one day our paths will cross with him," Özkan added, signaling respect for the Italian coach's character.
Okan Özkan's journey from Istanbul to Szczecin represents a growing trend of Turkish football professionals making their mark abroad. Through a blend of strategic career moves, data-driven methodologies, and unwavering national pride, he is carving a unique path. His success in Poland could pave the way for more Turkish talents in the administrative and technical sectors of European football, ultimately strengthening Turkey's presence in the global game.
Based on reporting from Hürriyet.