Oğuzhan Özyakup Makes a Major Announcement!

Former Beşiktaş player Oğuzhan Özyakup, 31, has announced his retirement from football.

In his statement, Özyakup said, “I have always played football with great joy and passion. Football has never just been a game for me; it has been my life and always will be a part of it. I am very lucky to have had the opportunity to play for teams with goals and dreams. I have played in special matches that I will never forget, as well as winning championships and trophies. Looking back, I have moments and memories that most players do not experience. However, in the last two seasons, despite playing challenging and exciting matches, I realized that I was no longer happy with the style of football I was playing and that I was far from where I wanted to be. I have thought a lot about this decision over the past few months. Football has never been just ‘a job’ for me. That’s why I always knew I would play football as long as I enjoyed it and would retire the moment I couldn’t play in line with my own football philosophy.

I would like to thank all the teams from the Süper Lig who showed interest this summer. However, since I always felt and wanted to be remembered as Beşiktaş’s Oğuzhan, it was not possible for me to play for another club. It has been a difficult decision to make regarding my football career, but I have decided to end my professional career due to the lack of sufficient goals that match the infinite love and value I have for football. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to my career.”

Career Performance

After playing for Arsenal and AZ Alkmaar youth teams, Özyakup transferred to Beşiktaş, where he spent 8 years. The 31-year-old player’s last club was Fortuna Sittard.

Over his career, Özyakup played 404 matches, scoring 46 goals and providing 75 assists.