Çalhanoğlu on the Ballon d'Or: "I'm Being Criticized, but a Turkish Player Has Been Nominated for the First Time in 21 Years"
Turkish national team and Inter midfielder Hakan Çalhanoğlu spoke about his nomination for the Ballon d'Or.
"When it comes to me, there is always criticism, but I try not to listen. I don't want to come across as arrogant, but a Turkish player has been nominated for the first time in 21 years. I take pride in that. I serve my country to the best of my ability.
In recent months, I have received offers from other clubs, but I stated that I would stay at Inter, and Inter did not want to let me go. So, as I said, it was not within my control.
I will strive to play at the highest level. As for the Turkish national team, I aim to reach my 100th match—this has always been my goal. If my body allows, I will try to play football for as long as possible," Çalhanoğlu told TuttoMercato.
The midfielder has made 92 appearances for the Turkish national team, scoring 19 goals and providing 13 assists.
