Çağlar Söyüncü is a Turkish professional footballer who plays as a centre-back. He is best known for his five-season tenure at Leicester City, where he helped secure the 2021 FA Cup and FA Community Shield. Since his international debut in 2016, he has earned over 60 caps for the Turkey national team.
The career trajectory of Çağlar Söyüncü began in the TFF First League with Altınordu, marking him as the first Turkish footballer to secure a direct transfer from that division to the German Bundesliga. Since entering the senior international stage in 2016, the İzmir-born centre-back has accumulated over 60 caps for the Turkey national team across various major tournaments.
Early Development and Bundesliga Transition
Söyüncü emerged through the youth and senior ranks of Altınordu, becoming the first player from the club to receive a national team call-up in 78 years when Fatih Terim selected him in 2015. Despite interest from major Turkish clubs and Sevilla, he chose SC Freiburg in 2016 to facilitate his professional progression. His debut in the German top flight occurred on 28 August 2016 during a match against Hertha Berlin.
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Take the IQ test →Tenure at Leicester City
In August 2018, Söyüncü joined Leicester City on a five-year contract for a fee reported at £18 million. During his five-season stay, he made 132 appearances and was instrumental in the club's 2021 success, securing both the FA Cup and the FA Community Shield. His defensive contributions earned him a spot in the PFA Team of the Year for the 2019–20 season, and he notably scored the winning goal against Manchester United at Old Trafford in May 2021.
La Liga and Return to Turkey
Following the expiration of his Leicester City contract in 2023, Söyüncü moved to Atlético Madrid on a four-year deal. His time in Spain was limited to nine appearances before he joined Fenerbahçe on loan in January 2024. He made his Süper Lig debut for the club against Antalyaspor in February. Following a permanent transfer that saw an €8 million fee paid to Atlético, his time at Fenerbahçe concluded with a contract termination by mutual consent in September 2026.
International Profile and Playing Style
Standing 1.85 metres tall, Söyüncü is noted for his aerial strength and aggressive playmaking style. His international debut occurred on 24 March 2016 against Sweden. He represented Turkey at UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His technical profile led pundit Martin Keown to describe him as a defender suited for the modern era, emphasizing his agility and timing in transition.
Fast facts
- Born: 23 May 1996, İzmir, Turkey
- Primary Position: Centre-back
- Professional Debut: Altınordu
- Bundesliga Debut: 28 August 2016
- Leicester City Appearances: 132
- Major Trophies: FA Cup, FA Community Shield (2021)
- International Debut: 24 March 2016
Questions readers ask
Which clubs did Çağlar Söyüncü represent in England?
He played exclusively for Leicester City during his time in the English Premier League.
Did Söyüncü participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Yes, he was selected as part of the 26-man squad for the 2026 tournament.
