The €13.4 million transfer fee paid by Roma in 2017 signaled the arrival of Cengiz Ünder on the international stage. Born on 14 July 1997 in Sındırgı, Turkey, the winger has navigated a diverse professional path through top-flight leagues in Italy, England, France, and his home nation before joining Çorum.
Early Development and Rise
Ünder launched his professional journey at Altınordu. He subsequently moved to Başakşehir for €700,000. During his debut season in the Süper Lig, he registered 7 goals across 32 appearances, securing a spot in the 2016–17 Süper Lig Team of the Season.
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At Roma, Ünder became the youngest Turkish player to score in the Champions League during a 2018 match against Shakhtar Donetsk. He contributed to the club's historic 2018 Champions League semi-final run, including an assist against Barcelona. Following his time in Italy, he joined Leicester City on loan for the 2020–21 season, where he earned an FA Cup title. A move to Marseille followed in 2021, eventually becoming a permanent transfer in 2022.
Recent Club Activity
In 2023, Ünder returned to Turkey on a four-year contract with Fenerbahçe for €15 million. His stint there included a four-goal performance against Istanbulspor. His later career path involved a 2025 loan to Los Angeles FC in Major League Soccer, where he debuted in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, and a subsequent loan to Beşiktaş. As of 28 August 2026, he maintains a contract with the newly promoted club Çorum.
National and Public Profile
A regular for Turkey, Ünder made his senior squad debut in 2016 and participated in the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament. He was named Turkish Footballer of the Year in 2018. His career has occasionally faced public scrutiny, notably following his use of a military salute celebration in 2018 and controversy during his 2025 signing with Los Angeles FC.
Fast facts
- Born: 14 July 1997, Sındırgı
- Professional Debut: 2014
- 2018 Turkish Footballer of the Year
- FA Cup Winner: 2020–21
- Key Clubs: Roma, Leicester City, Marseille, Fenerbahçe
- International Debut: 2016
Questions readers ask
Which clubs has Cengiz Ünder played for?
His career includes stints at Altınordu, Başakşehir, Roma, Leicester City, Marseille, Fenerbahçe, Los Angeles FC, Beşiktaş, and Çorum.
Has he won any major individual awards?
Yes, he was named the Turkish Footballer of the Year in 2018 and was included in the 2016–17 Süper Lig Team of the Season.
