Merih Demiral, a central defender born in the Karamürsel district in 1998, rose through the Fenerbahçe youth system to establish a professional career across Europe and Saudi Arabia. He became the first Turkish player to represent Juventus, setting a distinct path for national athletes in top-tier Italian football before moving to the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ahli.
Early Career and European Progression
Demiral began his path in 2016 by signing with the Portuguese side Alcanenense. He made his debut in the Taça de Portugal in October 2016. By 2017, he joined Sporting B, appearing in the Segunda Liga. After a short period with Sporting, he transitioned to Alanyaspor in 2018. His performance in Turkey facilitated a move to the Italian club Sassuolo in early 2019, where he debuted in Serie A and scored two goals against Chievo.
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In July 2019, Juventus acquired Demiral for €18 million on a five-year contract. He debuted for the club in September 2019 and featured in the Champions League that December. An anterior cruciate ligament injury in January 2020 interrupted his progress, though he returned in August. In 2021, he joined Atalanta on loan, eventually signing permanently for €20 million in 2022 after appearing in 42 matches.
Professional Developments in Saudi Arabia
Demiral moved to the Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli on a three-year contract in August 2023 for a reported €17 million. He debuted shortly after and recorded his first goal and assist for the side in December 2023. By September 2024, he debuted in the AFC Champions League Elite, ultimately contributing to the squad winning the trophy.
International and Disciplinary Matters
Demiral debuted for the senior national squad on 20 November 2018. In 2024, he scored a brace against Austria in the round of 16, with his opening goal coming at 57 seconds—the fastest goal in the history of the European competition knockout stages. Later in 2024, he faced a two-match ban from UEFA following a goal celebration gesture involving the Grey Wolves organization, which drew diplomatic attention from Turkey and Germany.
Fast facts
- Born: 5 March 1998, Karamürsel district
- Professional debut: 16 October 2016
- Juventus transfer fee: €18 million
- Atalanta transfer fee: €20 million
- Al-Ahli contract length: 3 years
- Fastest knockout goal record: 57 seconds
Questions readers ask
Which clubs has Merih Demiral played for?
He has played for Alcanenense, Sporting B, Sporting, Alanyaspor, Sassuolo, Juventus, Atalanta, and Al-Ahli.
Why was Demiral banned by UEFA in 2024?
He was banned for two matches for failing to comply with general principles of conduct after performing a wolf salute gesture.
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