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Fenerbahce winger Cengiz Under is set to return to Istanbul this summer following the end of his loan at Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC.
The Turkish international was loaned to LAFC mid-season for a €1.2 million ($1.39 million) fee, after Fenerbahce acquired him from Olympique Marseille for €15 million. While Under had a €25 million purchase option in his contract, the MLS club has decided not to trigger it.
During his time in Los Angeles, the 27-year-old featured in 15 matches, scoring two goals and delivering three assists. Despite flashes of quality, LAFC opted against making the move permanent.
Under remains under contract with Fenerbahce until 2027 and will rejoin the squad during the summer transfer window.
Cengiz Under's move to LAFC earlier this year also sparked controversy due to political and historical tensions.
LAFC’s Armenian supporter group, Los Armenios, publicly criticized the club's decision to sign the Turkish international, calling it disrespectful to the sentiments of the Armenian community. In a social media statement, the group warned that the transfer could lead to disappointment among Armenian fans and even a potential boycott. The group's racist and stereotyping comments sparked controversy.
They urged the club to reconsider the signing and engage in dialogue with Armenian community leaders.
Responding to the backlash, Under emphasized football’s role in uniting people from diverse backgrounds. He said he was proud to work alongside individuals of different ethnicities in Los Angeles and expressed hope that fans would view football as a bridge rather than a divider.
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