Fenerbahçe trims €90 M€ squad ahead of Champions clash with OL

After splashing nearly €90 M€ on signings this summer, Fenerbahçe has begun to trim its roster, registering two exits and a €25 M€ sale before hosting Olympique Lyonnais in Champions League on Tuesday, while Romelu Lukaku remains available. The club entered the season with five new players costing close to €90 M€, creating a particularly large squad.

Spending spree forces squad trim

Coach acknowledged the need to reduce numbers after the opening league defeat. “Our recruitment cell continues its work. We have many players in our squad. It is necessary to separate them,” he said.

Midfielder Fred has left Fenerbahçe to rejoin his native Brazil with Atlético Mineiro. The Brazilian previously featured for Manchester United before moving to Europe this summer. His departure reduces the midfield options for the Turkish Club.

Departures and €25 M€ sale reshape squad

Forward Sidiki Chérif also exits, signing a five‑year contract with Coventry City. He was Présents lors du tour précédent, but will not take part in the reception of Olympique Lyonnais. The move recovers part of the club’s investment.

The €25 M€ transfer concerns the former Angers striker who was loaned to Fenerbahçe last winter and signed permanently this summer. The deal is recorded as La Si Club Atlético in the paperwork. This sale helps offset the heavy summer spending.

Romelu Lukaku remains in the squad and is expected to feature in the Tuesday night Ligue des Champions tie. Olympique Lyonnais can rely on its two recent signings, Zachary Athekame and Felix Bacher, who are now qualified for the encounter. Both sides will field their strongest available line‑ups.

Fenerbahçe must also keep its finances in line with DNCG regulations, adding pressure to the squad overhaul. The club faces an opponent with considerably greater resources, yet the adjustments aim to preserve competitiveness. The upcoming match will test the effectiveness of the recent departures.