Orkun Kökçü snubs Bruno Lage, explains why he left Benfica | OneFootball

Orkun Kökçü revealed this Wednesday that he went through psychological difficulties during his stay at Benfica. In an interview with TRT Sport, the former player of Clube da Luz did not mention the name of Bruno Lage – with whom he had a conflict at the Club World Cup – and explained his move to Besiktas.

“I had a very good period at Benfica, it was a good phase from a football perspective, but mentally I had some difficulties. I couldn't find the rhythm and wanted to be transferred,” Orkun Kökçü began, discussing his departure from the Eagles last summer to join the Black Eagles.

“For me, the most important thing in life is to be happy. I lived in Portugal for two years, but it was the first time I was alone outside my country. Outside of football, it was a very lonely period,” added the Turkish international, who returned to his homeland after representing Benfica at the Club World Cup.

“It was my childhood dream to play for Besiktas. I am not a person obsessed with my career; in the end, everyone is forgotten. I wanted to go to a place where I would be happy. They say I came unhappy, but that's not true. I am really happy here,” concluded the 25-year-old midfielder.

Orkun Kökçü - valued at 25 million euros - joined Benfica in the summer of 2024, coming from Feyenoord, in a deal around 30 million euros. With the Sacred Mantle, the midfielder played 98 matches, scored 19 goals, made 22 assists, and won a Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira against Porto.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.