Ivorian goalkeeper Yahia Fofana joins Çaykur Rizespor on three-year deal

Çaykur Rizespor have confirmed the signing of Ivorian goalkeeper Yahia Fofana on a three-year contract, bringing him to the Turkish Super Lig in the final hours of the summer transfer window.

The 25-year-old, who was a target for several European clubs including Torino, Leeds United and Wolverhampton Wanderers, opted to take his career to Turkey, with Rizespor announcing his arrival through an official statement on social media.

His contract with the club runs until June 2028, marking a new chapter in his professional journey.

Fofana’s career began in France, where he developed his skills within Le Havre AC’s youth system. After progressing through the U19 ranks, he earned a place in the club’s reserve side, showcasing his potential as a promising young goalkeeper.

His performances at youth level led to his first professional contract with Le Havre in 2019, cementing his status as a rising talent.

Following his stint at Le Havre, Fofana secured a move to SCO Angers, where he continued to refine his craft and gain valuable experience in top-flight football.

His time in Ligue 1 offered him consistent exposure to elite-level competition, helping him establish a reputation as a reliable and composed presence between the posts.

The transfer to Çaykur Rizespor represents a significant step for Fofana, who will now test his abilities in a new league while adding international depth to the Turkish club’s goalkeeping department.

Rizespor’s decision to secure his services amid competition from high-profile European sides underscores their ambition to strengthen their squad with proven talent.

At 25, Fofana is entering what many consider a goalkeeper’s prime years. His mix of technical skill, agility, and composure is expected to provide Rizespor with stability at the back as they prepare for the challenges of the new season

. The club’s management has placed faith in his potential to be a key figure in their pursuit of domestic success.

Fofana’s move also highlights the increasing appeal of the Turkish Super Lig as a destination for players seeking competitive football outside Europe’s traditional top five leagues.

His decision to join Rizespor despite interest from Serie A and Premier League sides reflects the club’s growing stature and ability to attract international talent.

The Ivorian will now look to settle quickly into his new surroundings, with fans eager to see him make his debut and bring his experience to the side.

For Rizespor, securing a goalkeeper of Fofana’s calibre is a statement of intent as they continue to build a team capable of competing strongly this season.

Yahia Fofana Çaykur Rizespor’da

Çaykur Rizespor’umuz, Fildişi Sahilli milli takım kalecisi Yahia Fofana’yı 3 sezonluğuna kadrosuna kattı.

Fransa Ligue 1 ekibi Angers ve Fofana ile anlaşmaya varılmasının ardından oyuncu sağlık kontrolleri için İstanbul’a geldi.
Sağlık… pic.twitter.com/33nMI0lBnr

— Çaykur Rizespor (@CRizesporAS) September 2, 2025