Strong backing: Alexander Djiku tips Kojo Peprah Oppong for Fenerbahce success

Ghana defender believes compatriot has the qualities to make an impact in Turkey

Ghana international Alexander Djiku has backed compatriot Kojo Peprah Oppong to succeed at Fenerbahce after the young defender completed his move to the Turkish giants from French side OGC Nice.

Peprah has joined Fenerbahce on a permanent transfer reportedly worth more than €10m, ending his spell with Nice after just one season.

The move represents another step in the 22-year-old’s development following an impressive campaign in France.

Djiku, who previously played for Fenerbahce and understands the demands of Turkish football, believes Peprah has the qualities required to establish himself at the Istanbul club.

The Ghanaian defender joined Nice last summer and quickly became an important part of the team.

During his time in France, he made 43 appearances in all competitions and scored once.

His performances attracted the attention of Fenerbahce, who have now secured his services on a permanent basis.

Djiku praises Peprah’s qualities

Djiku said Peprah’s performances for Nice demonstrated why he deserved the opportunity to join a club of Fenerbahce’s stature.

“Of course, I know Kojo Peprah Oppong. He’s a good player. He had a really good season at Nice and was one of the team’s best players,” Djiku told Fanatik.

The former Fenerbahce player highlighted Peprah’s physical attributes and his ability to contribute when in possession, while also pointing to the defender’s age as an indication that he still has considerable room for improvement.

“He’s an athletic centre-back, and he’s also very good with the ball. He’s still young, so he has plenty of room to develop, and I’m sure he’ll learn a lot at Fenerbahçe. I think he’s a very good signing for the club,” he added.

Peprah will now face the challenge of adapting to a new league and environment after making the move from France to Turkey.

For Djiku, however, the transfer provides the young Ghanaian with an opportunity to continue developing at a club where expectations are high.

Djiku sends message to Fenerbahce fans

Djiku also used his comments to reflect on his own connection with Fenerbahce and Istanbul.

Having previously represented the Turkish club, the Ghana international remains fond of his time there and expressed his support for Peprah as he begins his new chapter.

“I hope he succeeds. I have great memories of Fenerbahçe and Istanbul. Sending my love to the Fenerbahçe fans,” he said.

Peprah’s move also comes after his involvement with the Ghana national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

The defender was part of the Black Stars squad that reached the Round of 32.

Ghana progressed beyond the group stage for the first time since their run at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Peprah begins new chapter in Turkey

The move to Fenerbahce gives Peprah the chance to build on the progress he made during his first season at Nice.

His arrival in Istanbul follows a campaign in which he established himself as an important member of the French side and made 43 appearances across all competitions.

The young centre-back will now turn his attention to settling into Turkish football and competing for a regular role in Fenerbahce’s defence.

Djiku’s assessment provides an encouraging endorsement from a player who knows both the club and the demands of the league.

For Peprah, the immediate task is to adapt to his new surroundings and continue the development that earned him a move to one of Turkey’s leading clubs.

His transfer from Nice marks the latest stage of a rapidly developing career, with Fenerbahce now providing the Ghanaian defender with a new platform to establish himself at club level.

Transfer overview

Kojo Peprah Oppong

• New Club: Fenerbahce
• Previous Club: OGC Nice
• Age: 22
• Reported Transfer Fee: More than €10 million
• Nice Appearances: 43
• Nice Goals: 1
• International Team: Ghana
• 2026 World Cup: Round of 32