Gabriel Sara is quickly establishing himself as a key player for Galatasaray following his transfer from Norwich City in 2024. The Brazilian midfielder has been in exceptional form, scoring four goals in his last five league matches, propelling his team to the top of the Turkish Super Lig with a three-point lead over their nearest competitors. His recent performance reached a new pinnacle on Tuesday, when he marked his Champions League debut with a goal in Galatasaray’s impressive 5-2 win against Juventus at RAMS Park.
In the match, Sara capitalised on a defensive mistake to net the opening goal before assisting Davinson Sanchez, a former Tottenham defender, for the second goal. His outstanding display earned him the Man of the Match award in the first leg of the Champions League play-off, with the second leg set to take place next Wednesday in Italy.
In an interview with Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte before the match, Sara expressed his excitement about fulfilling a lifelong dream of participating in Europe’s elite club tournament. “I had the opportunity to compete in the Champions League this year, and when you hear that music playing, you already feel that it was all worth being there,” he remarked, highlighting the significance of the event.
Sara is acutely aware of the challenges that accompany Champions League football. “In the Champions League, expectations are always very high. We know they are a very strong opponent, a top-level team. Here at Galatasaray, everyone really wants this qualification - the fans, the club. Galatasaray won a European title more than 20 years ago, so people dream of advancing and continuing to make history in the competition,” he explained.
During his tenure at Carrow Road, Sara made a notable impact, scoring 21 goals in 96 appearances. After a slow start in Turkey, his first Champions League goal has increased his overall tally to six in all competitions this season. “It's a great moment in terms of numbers. I had been playing good football before, but I was falling short a few times in terms of goals. This season, I believe it's my best run of form, both in terms of goals and my performance on the field,” he stated. Read more about Springett Targets Long-Term Norwich Stay After Career Revival.
The vibrant football culture in Turkey has left a lasting impression on Sara. “Scoring a goal puts you in the spotlight, and here they're passionate about whoever scores. When you score, it's madness. You go out on the street, and you practically can't walk or relax. There have been times when I've been followed by cars near my house, with fans honking and trying to get my attention. If you do a good job here, you receive a lot of love and experience a lot of joy. The atmosphere is surreal for anyone who plays football in Turkey,” he noted.
Sara made history as Norwich's first signing from South America when he arrived from São Paulo in 2022, where he began his career in the club's academy, making his senior debut in the 2017 Brasileiro Serie A. His transfer to Galatasaray included a sell-on clause, ensuring Norwich could benefit if he returns to England in the future. Read more about Springett Shines as Norwich City Target Revival.
Despite his current success, Sara has a strong desire to return to his roots. “There are many stories left behind at São Paulo. I arrived at the club when I was 13 years old; I practically grew up there. I was very happy at São Paulo, very much so. My dream is still alive. I will return to São Paulo, for sure... There's a feeling of frustration for not having achieved more,” he confessed.
Reflecting on his past experiences, he added, “In the 2020 Brazilian Championship, when we let a title slip away even with a great team and playing well, that was the biggest frustration for me. That defeat really affected me; I spent days thinking about it. Sometimes I even get impatient when I think about the club because I lived incredible years there and I still want to live many more. Right now, it's not what's on my mind, but in the not-too-distant future, it'll be my focus. As I've said before, I don't want to return to São Paulo at the end of my career, unable to run or contribute. I want to return at a good time, playing well, to add value and win titles for the club.”
As Gabriel Sara continues to excel on the European stage, his journey serves as a source of pride for Norwich City supporters, who celebrate the achievements of their former player.