Caykur Rizespor Squad 2024/25
Introduction
Caykur Rizespor, a prominent Turkish football club based in Rize, has consistently been a competitive force in the Süper Lig. Known for their passionate fanbase and strategic approach to building a balanced squad, the club has meticulously assembled a roster for the 2024/25 season that blends experience, youth, and tactical versatility. This season, the team aims to solidify its position in the top tier of Turkish football while making a strong push for European qualification. The squad features a mix of domestic talents and international stars, each bringing unique qualities to the table. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of the Caykur Rizespor squad for the 2024/25 season, categorized by position.
Goalkeepers
- Gökhan Akkan
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: Adana Demirspor, Gaziantep FK
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2021)
Gökhan Akkan, the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, has been a cornerstone of Caykur Rizespor’s defense since his arrival. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Akkan has consistently delivered match-winning performances. His ability to read the game and organize the defensive line has earned him accolades from fans and pundits alike. With over 150 Süper Lig appearances, his experience is invaluable to the team.
- Tarık Çetin
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: Beşiktaş, Altay SK
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2023)
Tarık Çetin serves as a reliable backup to Akkan. A product of Beşiktaş’s youth academy, Çetin brings technical proficiency and a calm demeanor under pressure. Although he has yet to establish himself as a regular starter, his performances in cup competitions have demonstrated his potential. His distribution and shot-stopping abilities make him a dependable option between the posts.
- Emirhan Yılmaz
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: None (Youth Academy Graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Emirhan Yılmaz is a promising young goalkeeper who has risen through the ranks of Caykur Rizespor’s youth system. At just 19 years old, he represents the future of the club’s goalkeeping department. While he is yet to make his senior debut, his performances for the reserve team have been impressive, showcasing his agility and composure.
Defenders
- Dario Melnjak
- Nationality: Croatian
- Former Clubs: Hull City, HNK Rijeka
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2022)
Dario Melnjak, the Croatian left-back, is a key figure in Caykur Rizespor’s defense. Known for his attacking prowess and defensive solidity, Melnjak is equally adept at delivering pinpoint crosses and making crucial tackles. His experience in European competitions adds a layer of maturity to the backline.
- Alperen Uysal
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: Sivasspor, Kayserispor
- Transfer Fee: €750,000 (2023)
Alperen Uysal is a versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and right-back. His physicality and aerial dominance make him a formidable opponent for any striker. Uysal’s leadership qualities have also seen him wear the captain’s armband on several occasions.
- Eren Albayrak
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: Çaykur Rizespor (youth), Trabzonspor
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2024)
Eren Albayrak returned to Caykur Rizespor after a stint at Trabzonspor, where he struggled for consistent game time. A technically gifted center-back, Albayrak excels in building play from the back and is known for his precise passing. His return has bolstered the team’s defensive options.
- Giannis Kotsiras
- Nationality: Greek
- Former Clubs: PAOK, Aris Thessaloniki
- Transfer Fee: €900,000 (2024)
Giannis Kotsiras, the Greek right-back, joined Caykur Rizespor in the summer of 2024. His marauding runs down the flank and defensive discipline have quickly made him a fan favorite. Kotsiras’ experience in the Greek Super League adds depth to the squad.
- Muhammet Taha Şahin
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: None (Youth Academy Graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Muhammet Taha Şahin is a young center-back who has shown immense potential in the club’s youth setup. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions has drawn comparisons to seasoned defenders. While still developing, he is expected to play a more prominent role in the coming seasons.
Midfielders
- Yannick Bolasie
- Nationality: Congolese (DR Congo)
- Former Clubs: Everton, Aston Villa, Sporting CP
- Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2023)
Yannick Bolasie, the experienced winger, brings flair and creativity to Caykur Rizespor’s midfield. Known for his dribbling skills and ability to deliver decisive crosses, Bolasie has been a revelation since joining the club. His experience in top European leagues adds a layer of sophistication to the team’s attacking play.
- Jonjo Shelvey
- Nationality: English
- Former Clubs: Liverpool, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2024)
Jonjo Shelvey, the English central midfielder, joined Caykur Rizespor in 2024. Renowned for his passing range and set-piece expertise, Shelvey has quickly become a linchpin in the team’s midfield. His leadership and experience in the Premier League have been instrumental in guiding the younger players.
- Lebogang Phiri
- Nationality: South African
- Former Clubs: Brøndby IF, Guingamp
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2023)
Lebogang Phiri is a dynamic box-to-box midfielder known for his energy and tenacity. His ability to break up play and initiate counterattacks has made him a vital cog in Caykur Rizespor’s midfield. Phiri’s work rate and tactical intelligence are highly valued by the coaching staff.
- Altin Zeqiri
- Nationality: Swiss
- Former Clubs: Brighton & Hove Albion, FC Basel
- Transfer Fee: €1 million (2024)
Altin Zeqiri, the Swiss attacking midfielder, joined the club in 2024. His technical skills and vision make him a creative force in the final third. Zeqiri’s ability to score from distance and provide key passes has added a new dimension to the team’s attack.
- Efe Tecimer
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: None (Youth Academy Graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Efe Tecimer is a promising young midfielder who has impressed with his composure and passing accuracy. While still developing, his performances in the reserve team have earned him a spot in the senior squad. Tecimer represents the future of Caykur Rizespor’s midfield.
Forwards
- Joel Pohjanpalo
- Nationality: Finnish
- Former Clubs: Bayer Leverkusen, Union Berlin
- Transfer Fee: €3 million (2023)
Joel Pohjanpalo, the Finnish striker, is the focal point of Caykur Rizespor’s attack. Known for his clinical finishing and aerial prowess, Pohjanpalo has been a consistent goal scorer since joining the club. His ability to hold up play and bring teammates into the game makes him a complete forward.
- Benhur Keser
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: Fenerbahçe, Göztepe
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2024)
Benhur Keser, the Turkish winger, joined Caykur Rizespor in 2024. His pace and dribbling skills make him a constant threat on the flanks. Keser’s ability to cut inside and score from tight angles has added versatility to the team’s attacking options.
- Martin Minchev
- Nationality: Bulgarian
- Former Clubs: Eintracht Frankfurt, FC St. Pauli
- Transfer Fee: €1.8 million (2024)
Martin Minchev, the Bulgarian forward, is known for his versatility and goal-scoring ability. Capable of playing as a striker or on the wing, Minchev’s movement and finishing have made him a valuable asset. His experience in European leagues adds depth to the squad.
- Emirhan Topçu
- Nationality: Turkish
- Former Clubs: None (Youth Academy Graduate)
- Transfer Fee: N/A
Emirhan Topçu is a young forward who has shown immense potential in the club’s youth setup. His pace and ability to take on defenders have earned him a spot in the senior squad. Topçu represents the future of Caykur Rizespor’s attack.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 Caykur Rizespor squad is a well-balanced mix of experienced veterans and promising young talents. With a strong defensive unit, a creative midfield, and a dynamic attack, the team is well-equipped to compete at the highest level. The addition of key players like Jonjo Shelvey and Giannis Kotsiras has further strengthened the squad, while the emergence of youth academy graduates like Emirhan Topçu and Muhammet Taha Şahin highlights the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. As the season unfolds, Caykur Rizespor fans can look forward to an exciting campaign filled with thrilling performances and memorable moments.
