After a frustrating season on loan at Fenerbahçe, where playing time has been extremely limited, Islam Slimani is set to leave the Turkish club at the end of the campaign. The Algerian striker’s last appearance in the Süper Lig came on February 16th against Konyaspor, and his departure has now been confirmed.
According to Portuguese media, Slimani is expected to return to Sporting Lisbon this summer. The former Sporting striker, who spent several successful years at the Lisbon club, has long been desired back by the Portuguese side, although previous negotiations were stalled due to financial constraints. This time, all indications suggest a smoother process, with Leicester City unlikely to obstruct the move. Slimani is not in the plans of Brendan Rodgers, Leicester’s new manager, making the club more amenable to negotiating his return to Portugal.
Under contract with Leicester until June 2020, Slimani’s move appears set to revive his career at Sporting Lisbon, where he previously enjoyed his most productive spell. The striker will bring experience, familiarity with the club, and a proven goal-scoring record back to the Portuguese side, potentially helping them strengthen their attack for the upcoming season.
Slimani’s return also signals a fresh start after a challenging period in Turkey, where limited opportunities prevented him from making an impact. For Sporting, it represents the re-acquisition of a trusted forward, while for Slimani, it is a chance to re-establish himself at a club where he previously excelled.
