Beşiktaş Winger İlhan Fakılı Moves to Türkiye U21s for Ukraine Match
Beşiktaş winger İlhan Fakılı has been moved from Türkiye’s senior national-team group to the Under-21 squad ahead of the team’s away fixture against Ukraine on September 26. The temporary change gives the 20-year-old a chance to play a more immediate role in a competitive international match.
Fakılı had initially been included in head coach Vincenzo Montella’s senior setup after making an encouraging start following his summer move to Beşiktaş. The Istanbul club signed the wide attacker from French side Clermont Foot, where he came through the academy system.
According to the Turkish Football Federation, the coaching staff selected Fakılı for the U21 side to strengthen its attack against Ukraine. Rather than remain with the senior candidates without playing, he is expected to be available for meaningful minutes with the younger team.
The arrangement is temporary. Once the Ukraine fixture is over, Fakılı is due to return to the senior A Millî candidate group. His reassignment therefore offers the U21s additional attacking quality while keeping him in the wider picture for the national team’s senior setup.
Fakılı’s early performances have helped him make a rapid impression in Istanbul. Operating mainly on the left flank, he has drawn attention for his acceleration, ability to retain possession under pressure and willingness to take on defenders. His direct approach and attacking contribution have also earned early praise in both Süper Lig matches and European competition.
For the U21 coaching staff, his arrival provides another option in the final third and greater flexibility in how the team builds attacks. A winger capable of carrying the ball forward can help stretch the opposition’s defence, create space for teammates and offer a route to goal in transition.
The Ukraine match is also an opportunity for Fakılı to gain experience in a different international environment. Regular involvement at U21 level can help a young player adapt to the pace and demands of national-team football, particularly when facing a competitive opponent away from home.
The decision reflects a practical balance between development and squad needs. The senior team retains Fakılı within its candidate pool, while the U21s can call on a player who has already begun to establish himself at club level. His performance in the fixture could provide the coaching staff with a clearer picture of how he can contribute across both age groups.
Fakılı’s progress at Beşiktaş will remain central to his prospects with Türkiye. Consistent club performances, combined with effective displays for the U21 side, could strengthen his case for future senior appearances. For now, his immediate task is to help the Under-21 team in its meeting with Ukraine before returning to the senior squad group.