Chelsea Legend, Nicolas Anelka Lands New Job In Turkey

Nicolas Anelka’s recent move to Turkey has caught the attention of many.

The former football star has embraced a new endeavour as the CEO of Umraniyespor, a team competing in the TFF 1. Lig, which is the second division of Turkish football.

Announcing Anelka’s deal, Umraniyespor wrote: “Bienvenue, Professor! Our club has agreed with Nicolas Anelka for the CEO position.

“We welcome Nicolas Anelka and wish him success.”

Anelka’s new team faced relegation from the Turkish Super Lig in the previous season, finishing 17th.

Their return to the second tier has been disappointing, as they currently occupy the 12th position with only six victories out of 19 matches.

SportXparte reports that the 44-year-old former Premier League and Champions League winner

Anelka had a successful career as a player, representing top clubs in Europe, such as Arsenal, Chelsea, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Manchester City. He also played for the French national team, earning 71 caps and scoring 14 goals.

After retiring in 2014, Anelka has been involved in various coaching and administrative roles.

Most recently, he briefly managed Hyères, a team in the Championnat National 2 in France, before leaving in November 2023.

Umraniyespor, located in the Istanbul metropolitan area, finished 10th in the TFF 1. Lig last season and has aspirations of promotion to the top division. Anelka’s appointment is considered a significant achievement for the club, as his experience and reputation are expected to enhance their profile and ambitions.

In his new position, Anelka will have oversight of all aspects of the club’s operations, including player recruitment, development, marketing, and finance. He will also work closely with the coaching staff and players to achieve success on the field.

Anelka’s arrival in Turkey has been met with excitement by Umraniyespor fans, who are hopeful that he can lead the club to a new era of prosperity. Whether he can replicate his success as a player in the boardroom remains to be seen, but his appointment is undoubtedly a bold and intriguing move that has captured the imagination of football fans around the world.

SportXparte understands that Anelka was officially unveiled as Umraniyespor CEO on January 23, 2024.

The terms of his contract have not been disclosed. However, the former play has spoken of his excitement about the challenge of leading Umraniyespor to success and has pledged to use his experience to help develop young Turkish players.