Six German-born Turkish footballers who made it big

Korea Republic v Germany: Group F - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia

#3 Emre Can (Germany)

Northern Ireland v Germany - FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier
Northern Ireland v Germany - FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier

Born to Turkish parents in Frankfurt, Germany, Emre Can started out in the youth ranks of his hometown club Eintracht Frankfurt before being snared by Bayern Munich at the age of 15 in 2009. After three years and only four Bundesliga appearances to his name, Emre decided to switch to fellow Bundesliga side Bayern Leverkusen in search of first-team football.

In his only season at Leverkusen, Emre became a pivotal part of the side scoring four goals in 39 appearances as Leverkusen finished fourth in the Bundesliga and reached the last 16 of the Champions League

His performances caught the attention of Liverpool and the Merseyside club activated his £9.75 m release clause to sign him from Leverkusen.

In his four seasons at Anfield, Emre established himself as a regular in Liverpool side under Jürgen Klopp. After failing to extend his contract, Emre switched countries to sign for Serie A giants Juventus in 2018.

Emre chose to represent Germany and has 21 international caps to his name. He was part of the UEFA Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup squad.

Quick Links