"Schalke loyalist Karaca transfers to AC Milan"
German-Turkish Talent Berkay Karaca Makes Permanent Move to AC Milan
Berkay Karaca, a native of Gelsenkirchen, Germany, has bid an emotional farewell to Schalke 04 after a decade with the club, as he embarks on a new chapter with Italian giants AC Milan.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Karaca expressed gratitude for his eleven years at Schalke, thanking teammates, employees, and fans for their unwavering support. He acknowledged the significant role Schalke played in his personal and professional development.
The 19-year-old full-back, who holds dual German and Turkish citizenship, will join AC Milan's youth development squad, Milan Futuro, following a free transfer from Schalke 04. Although the specific contract terms were not publicly disclosed, it is understood that AC Milan will pay a training compensation fee to Schalke 04, a standard procedure in transfers involving young players developed by other clubs.
Karaca, who was born in 2006, spent his formative years in Schalke's academy, donning the club's jersey with pride. A baby photo even showed him wearing a Schalke cap, a testament to his long-standing affection for the club.
Last season, Karaca played for Schalke's U19 team, coached by Norbert Elgert. His initial plan was to join Milan Futuro, AC Milan's reserve team in the 4th division, after two seasons with Milan Futuro.
AC Milan, a traditional Italian football club, does not have to pay a transfer fee to Schalke 04 for Karaca. The transfer was confirmed and announced in August 2025.
As Karaca begins this new journey, he leaves behind a legacy at Schalke 04, where he has grown from a promising young player to a talented professional. His departure marks the end of an era, but his impact on the club will not be forgotten.
References:
- AC Milan Official Statement
- Schalke 04 Official Statement
- Sky Sports News
- Goal.com
- Transfermarkt
Karaca's soccer trajectory extends beyond German boundaries, as he joins AC Milan's youth development squad, Milan Futuro, in pursuit of European-leagues excellence. This young talent, who started his soccer journey in Schalke'04's academy, now aims to make his mark in European-leagues, all while following his passion for football.
