The staggering decline of European giants who have one of the most incredible stadiums in world football

More than a decade after facing Manchester United in the Champions League, one of Turkey's biggest clubs have been relegated to the fourth tier in a dramatic fall from grace.

The decline of Bursaspor has been nothing short of remarkable. Back in 2010, they lifted their first Super Lig title after pipping Fenerbahce to the post by a single point.

It was a historic moment for the Bursa-based club, who became only the second club outside Istanbul to win Turkey's top division.

Ertugrul Saglam's side would go onto play Champions League football during the 2010/11 campaign, and featured in a tricky group alongside Manchester United, Rangers and Valencia.

They eventually finished bottom following two defeats against United but the Green Crocodiles continued to impress in the Super Lig, finishing third behind Trabzonspor and champions Fenerbahce.

Bursaspor would, however, suffer a sudden downturn when they were relegated from Turkey's top division during the 2018/2019 campaign.

And after suffering financial problems in 2022, they found themselves playing third tier football.

In fact, last year, Bursaspor were 'on the brink of closure' due to severe financial difficulties, mounting debts, and a ban on acquiring new players, according to Nogomania.

Now, with their strong fan-base and 43,361-capacity 'Crocodile' stadium behind them, the club will play in the fourth tier next season after their fate was confirmed following a 5-1 defeat against Erokspor.

Still, they will likely play their football in the much-loved Timsah Arena; a concept that was created in 2010 following their historic league campaign.

Bursaspor’s crocodile stadium is insane🔥🐊 pic.twitter.com/VfGcKKHDij

— Football Chants (@FootyFansChants) March 16, 2023

As you can see from the clip above, the stadium resembles a resting crocodile, with the outer shell consisting of green glass, as well as white and green polytetrafluoroethylene. The teeth also light up on matchdays.

The stadium has been included in various bids by Turkey to host the European Championship, including their unsuccessful bid for Euro 2024.