Ex-City man Sara living up to expectations at Galatasaray

Sara completed a move to Gala from City in the summer worth a guaranteed fee of £20m plus additional bonuses and add-ons. 

A difficult start to life in Turkey saw the Brazilian midfielder questioned by supporters, but an uplift in performances, including two assists in a 2-1 victory over Besiktas on Monday evening, has seen his popularity swell. 

In all competitions, Sara has assisted six times in his opening 14 matches for Galatasaray - more than any other player in the Super Lig. The Brazilian midfielder has also netted twice, including in a 3-1 victory over rivals Fenerbahce.  

Recent reports have stated that Gala chiefs now believe Sara's quality is worth more than £40m, with City in possession of a sell-on clause. 

Gala boss Okan Buruk was full of praise for the former Canaries player of the season after their victory over their Istanbul rivals to extend their lead at the top of the Super Lig to five points. 

"Gabriel Sara's foot is very good, very clean. He was one of the top assisters of the Championship last year.

"He defends well, participates in the game setup, and starts the team on the attack. His left foot is magical. We see this in dead balls. These were the things we wanted and dreamed of," Gala boss Buruk told Turkish outlet Fanatik. 

"We bought him willingly and with faith. He is very well-intentioned. He adapted very quickly. His human quality is also very high. He adapted to his team mates quickly.

"He is a good professional. A very young player. He has the goal of going to the Brazilian national team. That is also a very important goal. The assists came from him; the goals came from his team mates."

After a period of adaptation to life in Turkey, Sara is enjoying the challenges and intensity of representing Galatasaray. 

Gabriel Sara is exceeding expectations at Galatasaray after his summer move from Norwich City. (Image: Paul Chesterton/Focus Images Ltd) "I feel great right now. Frankly, it was a difficult start. I came from the Championship. I am very happy to be here. I am also happy to compete with this team in the Europa League," Sara said earlier this month.

"I hope we will finish this season with the championship again, as I know the history of the club, and it is important for the fans."

The former Norwich man will feature in their upcoming Europa League clash against Tottenham next month.