Major influence! Kante's transfer to Fenerbahce happened thanks to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
It seems the President of Turkey has some sway with FIFA.
Details: According to The Athletic, N'Golo Kante’s successful move from Al-Ittihad to Fenerbahce was not without the patronage of Turkey’s most powerful figure—President Recep Tayyip Erdogan himself.
Reports indicate that after FIFA blocked Kante’s transfer to Fenerbahce due to documents being submitted past the deadline, the Turkish club filed an appeal, requesting the transfer be approved regardless. Erdogan personally took charge of resolving the issue.
- Also read: Kahrbaa Ismailia — Zamalek SC prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 4 February 2026
Once it was confirmed that the transfer had officially gone through, Fenerbahce openly thanked Recep Tayyip Erdogan for his instrumental role in making the move a reality.
In turn, Fenerbahce sold striker Youssef En-Nesyri to Al-Ittihad as part of the deal.
Reminder: The drama is over! Official: N'Golo Kanté is a Fenerbahçe player
Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert