29.05.2026 12:10
It has been claimed that Kaan Ayhan, who has not had enough playing time at Galatasaray, has requested a transfer. While it is stated that the national player wants to return to Schalke 04, where he started his career, the yellow-red management is expected to make a decision about the player's future in the coming days.
While squad planning continues for the new season at Süper Lig giant Galatasaray, the names that may leave the team are becoming clear. According to reports, Kaan Ayhan, who has fallen behind in head coach Okan Buruk's rotation, has informed the management that he wants to move to a team where he can find regular playing time. It has been learned that the 31-year-old player has requested permission from the club regarding his departure.
HIS GOAL IS TO RETURN TO SCHALKE 04
It has been stated that Kaan Ayhan's primary goal is to return to Schalke 04, the club where he started his football career. The German-born Turkish international player grew up in the Schalke youth academy between 1999 and 2013 and began his professional career at the German club. Kaan Ayhan, who later played for Eintracht Frankfurt, Fortuna Düsseldorf, and Sassuolo, continued his career at Galatasaray.
MANAGEMENT'S DECISION IS AWAITED
It has been reported that the Galatasaray management has taken the experienced player's request into consideration. It has been learned that the yellow-reds will decide whether the departure will be a loan or a permanent transfer based on incoming offers. Kaan Ayhan's contract with Galatasaray continues until June 30, 2028.
A PERIOD FILLED WITH TROPHIES AT GALATASARAY
Kaan Ayhan, who joined Galatasaray on loan during the mid-season of the 2022-2023 season, quickly became one of the team's key players. Galatasaray purchased the player's transfer rights from Sassuolo for 2.8 million euros in the summer of 2023.
The experienced player witnessed one of the successful periods in the club's history, winning 4 Süper Lig championships, 1 Turkish Cup, and 1 Super Cup under the yellow-red jersey.
LIMITED PLAYING TIME THIS SEASON
Kaan Ayhan logged 381 minutes in the Süper Lig during the 2025-2026 season, scoring 1 goal. In the UEFA Champions League, he was on the field for a total of 44 minutes across 4 matches. The experienced player also drew attention with his goal in the match where Galatasaray secured the championship by defeating Antalyaspor 4-2.