Nihat Kahveci joined the Beşiktaş senior squad during the 1997–98 season at the age of seventeen, marking the start of a professional career that would span fourteen years across Turkey and Spain. Known primarily by his first name, he established himself as a versatile forward and winger, eventually earning sixty-nine caps for the Turkish national team.
Early Development and Beşiktaş
Discovered by Hürser Mustafa Cindir, Nihat emerged from the Beşiktaş youth system. His initial tenure at the club coincided with the leadership of coach John Toshack. He remained a central figure within the squad until his departure for the Spanish league in early 2002.
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Transferring to Real Sociedad for €5 million in January 2002, Nihat formed a productive strike partnership with Darko Kovačević, earning the pair the nickname 'Little and Large' from journalist Phil Ball. During the 2002–03 season, he scored 23 league goals, finishing as the second-highest scorer. He later moved to Villarreal CF on a Bosman transfer in 2006. Despite suffering multiple ACL injuries, he contributed 18 league goals during his second season at Villarreal, helping the side secure a second-place finish in La Liga.
International Performance
Nihat made his international debut against Sweden in October 2000. He participated in the 2002 FIFA World Cup, appearing as a substitute in matches against Costa Rica and Japan. His impact was further notable at UEFA Euro 2008, where he scored two decisive goals against the Czech Republic to secure a place in the knockout stages for Turkey.
Final Years and Retirement
In June 2009, he returned to Beşiktaş on a four-year contract. His second stint proved difficult, characterized by low goal tallies and a public on-pitch altercation with teammate Ricardo Quaresma in April 2011. Following the termination of his contract in May 2011 and a brief period as a free agent, he announced his retirement on 12 January 2012, citing physical limitations and the difficulty of maintaining his previous standards.
Fast facts
- Born: 23 November 1979, Istanbul
- Primary positions: Forward, right winger
- Professional career: 1997–2012
- Don Balón Award: Best Foreign Player
- Marriage: Pınar Kaşgören, 5 July 2003
- International goals: 19
- UEFA Pro Licence holder
- Current role: Football commentator for TRT
Questions readers ask
Why did Nihat Kahveci leave Beşiktaş in 2011?
His contract was terminated by the club following a decline in performance and an on-field argument with Ricardo Quaresma.
What prompted his retirement in 2012?
Nihat stated that his age limited his ability on the pitch and he felt unable to perform at the level he expected of himself.
