Salih Özcan is a Turkish-German association football player who competes as a defensive midfielder. Born in 1998, he earned the golden Fritz Walter Medal in 2017 before transitioning from the German youth system to the Turkish national team. He is best known for his professional career in the Bundesliga and his 2026 signing with the Süper Lig club Beşiktaş.
The golden Fritz Walter Medal for the best U19 player in Germany was awarded to Salih Özcan in 2017, marking an early milestone in a career defined by defensive midfield play across several European leagues. Born on 11 January 1998 in Cologne, he holds dual citizenship in Turkey and Germany, eventually choosing to represent the Turkish national team internationally.
Early Development and Breakthrough
Özcan emerged from the youth system at 1. FC Köln, making his first-team debut in September 2016 during a Bundesliga match against Schalke 04. By the 2017–18 season, he secured a consistent role in the central midfield. His first league goal arrived on 2 September 2018 in a 2. Bundesliga contest against FC St. Pauli. During his time at the club, he contributed to winning the 2. Bundesliga title in the 2018–19 season.
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In August 2019, Özcan moved to Holstein Kiel on loan for one season. Following his return to Köln, he signed a two-year contract extension in June 2021. By May 2022, he transferred to Borussia Dortmund for an estimated fee of 5 million euros, signing a contract until 2026. His tenure at Dortmund included a loan move to VfL Wolfsburg in August 2024, followed by a recall in January 2025. He concluded his time at Dortmund in May 2026 after a final appearance against Eintracht Frankfurt.
International Career
Initially representing Germany at the youth level, including a victory in the 2021 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, Özcan transitioned to the Turkish national team in 2022. Head coach Stefan Kuntz called him up on 25 March 2022, leading to a debut against Italy four days later. He participated in UEFA Euro 2024 under manager Vincenzo Montella and scored his first international goal against Spain in November 2025 during 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches. He was also named to the Turkish squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Current Status
Since July 2026, Özcan has played for the Süper Lig club Beşiktaş. He signed a permanent contract spanning three years, which includes an option for a fourth year.
Fast facts
- Born: 11 January 1998, Cologne
- Citizenship: Turkey and Germany
- Position: Defensive midfielder
- Fritz Walter Medal: 2017 (U19 Gold)
- Beşiktaş contract start: 9 July 2026
- 2026 FIFA World Cup squad selection: 2 June 2026
- Major honour: UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2021
- Professional debut: September 2016
Questions readers ask
Which national team does Salih Özcan play for?
He plays for the Turkey national team, having made his debut in March 2022.
When did he join Beşiktaş?
He signed with the club on 9 July 2026.
Did he play in the UEFA Champions League?
Yes, he made his continental debut for Borussia Dortmund against København on 6 September 2022.
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