Amara Diouf has officially committed his future to Fenerbahçe, signing a six-year deal with the Turkish giants that will run until 2030.
The highly rated 17-year-old winger from Senegal’s famed Génération Foot academy had been closely monitored by several top European clubs, but it is Istanbul that will now serve as the next chapter in his promising career.
Despite strong ties between Génération Foot and French side FC Metz, a club many expected to secure Diouf’s signature, the young forward has opted to align his development with Fenerbahçe’s long-term project.
The transfer has now been completed, although the player will not be eligible to feature in competitive matches until he turns 18 in June 2026, in line with FIFA regulations concerning international transfers of minors.
While the official signing of a professional contract will have to wait until Diouf reaches the age of majority, Fenerbahçe has already moved swiftly to integrate the player into its setup.
He has relocated to Istanbul, where the club has begun working with him on a tailored training and rehabilitation programme.
The Senegalese U17 international, who helped his nation clinch the African U17 title, recently underwent surgery to address a cruciate ligament injury and subsequent complications.
Fenerbahçe’s medical staff has assumed responsibility for his recovery, establishing a comprehensive regimen to support both his physical rehabilitation and continued development.
Diouf’s decision to bypass FC Metz — despite their longstanding partnership with Génération Foot and a clear pathway into European football — has disappointed the Ligue 1 club.
FC Metz president Bernard Serin expressed his frustration in a recent interview with L’Équipe.
“Amara cannot leave Senegal before he turns 18, in June 2026. He suffered a cruciate ligament rupture and then a relapse, so he won’t be on the pitch before January 2026,” Serin said. “We hope he chooses the path of reason.”
That hope now appears unlikely to materialise.
Diouf and his entourage were reportedly swayed by Fenerbahçe’s sporting vision and the resources made available for his recovery and future growth.
With the club taking a proactive approach to his integration, they are betting heavily on the teenager becoming a major figure in their plans once he is eligible to play.
As one of Africa’s most promising prospects, Amara Diouf’s move to Turkey marks a pivotal step in his career.
Though he will not be seen on the pitch for some time, Fenerbahçe’s investment signals their belief in his long-term potential.
