Fenerbahce SK, one of Turkey’s most storied football clubs, has always been a beacon of excellence in Turkish and European football. As the 2024/25 season approaches, the club has meticulously assembled a squad brimming with talent, experience, and youthful exuberance. This season’s roster reflects a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, all united by a common goal: to reclaim domestic glory and make a significant impact on the European stage. Below, we delve into the detailed breakdown of Fenerbahce SK’s squad for the 2024/25 season, categorized by position.
Goalkeepers
Altay Bayındır
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Ankaragücü
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2019)
Altay Bayındır has established himself as one of the most reliable shot-stoppers in Turkish football. Known for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Bayındır has been a mainstay in Fenerbahce’s goal since his arrival from Ankaragücü. His ability to make crucial saves in high-pressure situations has earned him a reputation as a fan favorite. Standing at 1.98 meters, he dominates aerial duels and is a key figure in organizing the defense during set-pieces.
Irfan Can Eğribayat
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Göztepe
Transfer Fee: €2 million (2023)
Irfan Can Eğribayat joined Fenerbahce as a backup to Bayındır but has proven to be a capable deputy. His agility and sharp decision-making make him a dependable option between the sticks. Eğribayat’s experience in the Turkish Süper Lig, particularly during his time at Göztepe, has equipped him with the composure needed to perform at a top club like Fenerbahce.
Berke Özer
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Altınordu
Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2018)
Berke Özer is a young goalkeeper with immense potential. Having joined Fenerbahce from Altınordu, Özer has spent time on loan at various clubs to gain first-team experience. His shot-stopping ability and distribution skills make him a promising prospect for the future. While he currently serves as the third-choice goalkeeper, his development is closely monitored by the coaching staff.
Defenders
Attila Szalai
Nationality: Hungarian
Former Clubs: Apollon Limassol, Mezőkövesd
Transfer Fee: €2 million (2021)
Attila Szalai has been a rock at the heart of Fenerbahce’s defense since his arrival. The Hungarian international is known for his physicality, aerial prowess, and ability to read the game. Szalai’s leadership qualities have also seen him wear the captain’s armband on several occasions. His consistent performances have attracted interest from top European clubs, but he remains a vital part of Fenerbahce’s backline.
Serdar Aziz
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Galatasaray, Bursaspor
Transfer Fee: €3.5 million (2019)
Serdar Aziz brings a wealth of experience to Fenerbahce’s defense. The Turkish center-back is known for his no-nonsense approach and ability to make crucial interceptions. Aziz’s versatility allows him to play as a right-back when needed, adding depth to the squad. His leadership and experience are invaluable, especially in high-stakes matches.
Bright Osayi-Samuel
Nationality: Nigerian
Former Clubs: Queens Park Rangers, Blackpool
Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2021)
Bright Osayi-Samuel has been a revelation since joining Fenerbahce. The Nigerian right-back is known for his blistering pace and attacking prowess. Osayi-Samuel’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a key asset. His dribbling skills and crossing accuracy have made him a fan favorite, and he continues to improve with each passing season.
Ferdi Kadıoğlu
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: NEC Nijmegen
Transfer Fee: €1.8 million (2018)
Ferdi Kadıoğlu is a versatile defender who can operate as a left-back or in midfield. The Turkish international is known for his technical ability, vision, and work rate. Kadıoğlu’s ability to deliver pinpoint crosses and his defensive discipline make him an integral part of the squad. His development has been impressive, and he is considered one of the brightest talents in Turkish football.
Luan Peres
Nationality: Brazilian
Former Clubs: Santos, Marseille
Transfer Fee: €4 million (2022)
Luan Peres is a composed and technically gifted center-back. The Brazilian defender’s ability to play out from the back and his calmness under pressure have been crucial for Fenerbahce. Peres’ experience in European football, particularly during his time at Marseille, has added a layer of sophistication to Fenerbahce’s defense.
Nazım Sangaré
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Alanyaspor, Galatasaray
Transfer Fee: €3 million (2023)
Nazım Sangaré is a dynamic right-back known for his energy and attacking contributions. The Turkish defender’s ability to overlap and deliver dangerous crosses adds an extra dimension to Fenerbahce’s attack. Sangaré’s defensive awareness has also improved, making him a well-rounded full-back.
Midfielders
İrfan Can Kahveci
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Başakşehir
Transfer Fee: €7 million (2021)
İrfan Can Kahveci is a creative midfielder with an eye for goal. The Turkish international is known for his dribbling skills, vision, and ability to score from distance. Kahveci’s versatility allows him to play in various midfield roles, making him a valuable asset. His performances have been instrumental in Fenerbahce’s attacking play.
Miguel Crespo
Nationality: Portuguese
Former Clubs: Famalicão, Estoril
Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2022)
Miguel Crespo is a hard-working defensive midfielder who excels in breaking up play and distributing the ball efficiently. The Portuguese midfielder’s tactical awareness and ability to shield the defense have been crucial for Fenerbahce. Crespo’s work ethic and consistency make him a key player in the squad.
Miha Zajc
Nationality: Slovenian
Former Clubs: Empoli, Genk
Transfer Fee: €3 million (2019)
Miha Zajc is a technically gifted midfielder known for his passing range and ability to dictate the tempo of the game. The Slovenian international’s creativity and vision have been vital in unlocking opposition defenses. Zajc’s experience and composure make him a reliable presence in midfield.
Willian Arao
Nationality: Brazilian
Former Clubs: Flamengo
Transfer Fee: €4 million (2022)
Willian Arao is a combative midfielder who brings physicality and tenacity to Fenerbahce’s midfield. The Brazilian’s ability to win duels and his leadership qualities have made him a key figure in the squad. Arao’s experience in high-pressure situations, particularly during his time at Flamengo, has been invaluable.
Arda Güler
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Fenerbahce Academy
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy Graduate)
Arda Güler is one of the most exciting young talents in Turkish football. The attacking midfielder is known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to score spectacular goals. Güler’s rise through the ranks of Fenerbahce’s academy has been meteoric, and he is already considered a key player despite his young age.
Forwards
Edin Džeko
Nationality: Bosnian
Former Clubs: Manchester City, Roma, Inter Milan
Transfer Fee: Free Transfer (2023)
Edin Džeko is a seasoned striker with a proven track record at the highest level. The Bosnian international’s clinical finishing, aerial ability, and experience make him a valuable asset for Fenerbahce. Džeko’s leadership and ability to perform in crucial moments have been instrumental in the team’s success.
Enner Valencia
Nationality: Ecuadorian
Former Clubs: West Ham United, Everton, Tigres UANL
Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2020)
Enner Valencia is a versatile forward known for his pace, work rate, and ability to score goals. The Ecuadorian international’s ability to play as a center-forward or on the wing adds flexibility to Fenerbahce’s attack. Valencia’s experience and goal-scoring prowess make him a key player in the squad.
Joshua King
Nationality: Norwegian
Former Clubs: Bournemouth, Everton, Watford
Transfer Fee: Free Transfer (2023)
Joshua King is a dynamic forward known for his speed, strength, and ability to score goals. The Norwegian international’s versatility allows him to play in multiple attacking roles, making him a valuable asset. King’s experience in top European leagues has been crucial for Fenerbahce.
Serdar Dursun
Nationality: Turkish
Former Clubs: Darmstadt, Hannover 96
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2021)
Serdar Dursun is a clinical striker known for his goal-scoring ability and physical presence. The Turkish forward’s ability to hold up play and bring others into the game has been crucial for Fenerbahce. Dursun’s experience in European football has added depth to the squad.
Ryan Kent
Nationality: English
Former Clubs: Liverpool, Rangers
Transfer Fee: €5 million (2023)
Ryan Kent is a skillful winger known for his dribbling ability and creativity. The English forward’s pace and ability to take on defenders have added a new dimension to Fenerbahce’s attack. Kent’s experience in European competitions has been invaluable.
Conclusion
Fenerbahce SK’s squad for the 2024/25 season is a well-balanced mix of experience, talent, and potential. The club’s strategic recruitment and focus on developing young players have laid the foundation for a successful campaign. With a strong core of experienced players and the emergence of exciting young talents, Fenerbahce is poised to challenge for domestic and European honors. As the season unfolds, the Yellow Canaries will undoubtedly aim to soar to new heights, driven by the passion of their fans and the determination of their players.
