The 2015-2016 season was not just another Süper Lig season for Istanbul Başakşehir F.K.; it marked the club's first serious step onto the European stage. In previous years, Başakşehir had settled for local successes, but this season, they attracted all eyes as they earned the chance to compete in the UEFA Europa League.

Başakşehir began their European adventure with qualifying rounds. In the summer of 2015, they faced Bosnian side Zrinjski Mostar. The matches began to demonstrate how strong Başakşehir could be on the international stage. They secured a 2-0 victory in the first match played in Istanbul and followed it up with a 2-1 win in the return leg, thus advancing to the group stage.

In the group stage, Başakşehir was drawn with Spanish club Athletic Bilbao, Italian side Napoli, and English club AZ Alkmaar. Although they faced tough opponents at this stage, Başakşehir's performance raised the profile of Turkish football on the international stage. Notably, the match against Napoli became a significant moment showcasing the club's potential on the European front.

One of the most memorable moments of this season was when Başakşehir held Napoli to a 1-1 draw at home. This result became a significant source of motivation for both players and fans. The team's effort against one of Europe’s top leagues boosted their confidence and provided invaluable experience for future European endeavors.

This European adventure in the 2015-2016 season is etched in the club’s history in golden letters. This period not only represented footballing successes but also played a crucial role in strengthening Turkish football's identity on the international stage. Since that time, Başakşehir has continued with a determination to establish themselves more prominently in Europe, becoming an integral part of the club's growth ambitions.