Besiktas bank on ex-Dortmund midfielder Özcan to boost league push
Anadolu/GettyImages picture shows Salih Özcan, former Borussia Dortmund midfielder, moved to Turkish giants Besiktas Istanbul on a free transfer in July, signing a deal until 2029 after four contract years and 177 Bundesliga appearances for the BVB. After (Nach) his departure, he sought a fresh challenge abroad.
Before his move, Özcan spent his formative years at Ex- and training club 1. FC Köln. He also featured for VfL Wolfsburg, where he played roughly half a year on loan (Leihe). His senior career at Borussia Dortmund spanned four contract years, during which he amassed 177 Bundesliga appearances for the BVB.
Four years and 177 games at Dortmund
During his stint at Borussia Dortmund, Özcan became a regular in midfield, logging 177 league matches. The BVB relied on his versatility, but by the end of his fourth season the club indicated no future role for him. Consequently, he left on a free transfer.
In July (Juli) 2024, Özcan signed for Besiktas Istanbul, committing to the club until 2029. The move marked his first experience abroad, leaving German football after a decade. Besiktas secured him without a transfer fee, reflecting the BVB’s decision not to extend his contract.
Immediate impact in the Süper Lig
Since joining, Özcan has started every one of the first six Süper Lig (Lig) matchdays for the Eagles. He completed the full ninety minutes in four of those games, helping Besiktas claim victory in four of the opening six fixtures. The side now sit on twelve points, third in the table, just one point behind leaders Amed SK and title‑favorite Galatasaray Istanbul.
Although he has yet to record a goal or assist this season, Turkish media label him a “midfield dynamo” and “Abräumer”, praising his ability to free the attacking players. Coach Italiano describes Özcan as an indispensable component of his squad. His work rate and defensive coverage have been cited as key factors in Besiktas’s early success.
European outings and national team recognition
Özcan featured from kickoff in all six Europa League qualifying matches, maintaining his starting berth. He also started the group‑stage encounter with Olympique Marseille, a game Besiktas won 4‑1, with Özcan playing the entire match. His performances earned a call‑up to the Turkish national team for the current international break, where he completed the full ninety minutes against France on Friday evening and is expected to feature against Italy under coach Vincenzo Montella.
As Besiktas aim to sustain their push for the title, Özcan’s blend of experience from the Bundesliga and his growing influence in Turkey suggest he will remain central to the club’s ambitions in both domestic and European competitions. His journey from the German league back to the country (Land) of his heritage underscores the personal significance of his role.