FC Koln temporary transfers central defender Özkacar for the remainder of the season - Cologne FC to temporarily transfer defender Özkacar for the rest of the current season.
Turkish Defender Cenk Özkacar Joins 1.FC Cologne on Loan
Cenk Özkacar, a versatile defender with a strong left foot, has joined Bundesliga club 1.FC Cologne on loan from FC Valencia. The loan agreement was announced in early August 2025, marking a new chapter in Özkacar's career [4][5].
Özkacar's career in Europe spans several countries, including Turkey, France, Belgium, Spain, and now Germany. He spent the previous season on loan at La Liga rivals Real Valladolid, making 51 appearances in Spain's top flight [1]. However, his time at Real Valladolid was less successful, with only 12 appearances [1].
Thomas Kessler, the sporting director of 1.FC Cologne, expressed his excitement about the new addition, stating that Özkacar is expected to raise the level of 1.FC Cologne's defense [6]. As of this date, Özkacar has not yet played any Bundesliga matches or recorded performance statistics for 1.FC Cologne in the current 2025-2026 season [2].
Özkacar will wear the number 39 jersey for 1.FC Cologne [7]. Known for his strong one-on-one skills, athleticism, and tactical acumen, the Turkish international is eager to establish himself in one of Europe's top leagues [3].
Before joining Valencia, Özkacar had a brief loan spell at Belgian top-flight side Oud-Heverlee Leuven [2]. His career began in Turkey, where he played until 2020 before moving to Olympique Lyon in the French Ligue 1 [1].
As Özkacar's career history with 1.FC Cologne is just beginning, fans and analysts alike are eager to see his impact on the team. With his diverse experience and impressive skills, it's clear that Özkacar has the potential to make a significant contribution to 1.FC Cologne's defense.
References: 1. Football Database 2. Transfermarkt 3. Bundesliga 4. ESPN 5. Goal 6. Sport Bild 7. 1.FC Cologne Official Website
As Özkacar aims to establish himself in one of Europe's top leagues, he may also look to further his skills through vocational training programs within the community. With his football career primarily focused on European-leagues, it would be interesting to see him participate in sports beyond just football for a well-rounded approach to personal development.
