İstanbul, Turkey – A promising performance turned sour for Başakşehir FK forward Bertuğ Yıldırım on Thursday, February 15, 2026, as he sustained a likely cheekbone fracture during a Turkish Süper Lig match against Beşiktaş. The 23-year-old scored to equalize the game in the 88th minute, but was forced off the pitch shortly after following a collision.
The match, held at the Fatih Terim Stadium, ended in a 3-2 victory for Beşiktaş, but the result was overshadowed by Yıldırım’s injury. The Turkish international has develop into a key player for Başakşehir since joining the club from Rennes in September 2025, consistently impacting games as a substitute. His goal against Beşiktaş marked his fifth of the season, all coming after being brought on from the bench – with previous goals scored against Trabzonspor, Samsunspor, Fenerbahçe, and Çaykur Rizespor, according to reports from Ajansspor.
Başakşehir manager Nuri Şahin confirmed the severity of the injury in a post-match press conference. “Bertuğ Yıldırım probably broke his cheekbone,” Şahin stated. “He is a very valuable player for us, and for Turkish football. I am upset. His health is the most important thing.”
Yıldırım, who currently plays as a centre-forward but can also feature on the right wing, has made 14 appearances for Başakşehir this season, demonstrating his impact despite often coming off the bench. Transfermarkt lists his contract with Başakşehir as running until June 30, 2029, and his market value at €2.00 million.
The injury occurred during a header attempt, where Yıldırım collided with Beşiktaş player Salih Uçan. He was immediately substituted, replaced by Nuno da Costa. The extent of his recovery time remains uncertain, but a fractured cheekbone typically requires several weeks of healing.
Impact on Başakşehir and the National Team
Yıldırım’s absence will be a significant blow to Başakşehir, who are currently competing in the Turkish Süper Lig. His ability to change games from the bench has been a crucial asset for Nuri Şahin’s side. The injury also raises concerns for the Turkish national team, as Yıldırım has earned 5 caps and scored 2 goals for his country. His availability for upcoming international fixtures is now in doubt.
Rennes to Receive Resale Percentage
Interestingly, Başakşehir will be obligated to share a percentage of any future resale fee with Rennes, his former club. Transfermarkt reports that Rennes will receive 15% of the fee should Yıldırım be sold again.
The incident highlights the physical demands of professional football and the unfortunate reality of injuries. Fans and teammates alike will be hoping for a swift and full recovery for the young Turkish forward.
What comes next for Yıldırım will depend on the full extent of the injury confirmed by medical examinations. Başakşehir will undoubtedly provide updates on his condition as they navigate the remainder of the Süper Lig season without one of their key attacking options.
Share your thoughts on this unfortunate injury and wish Bertuğ Yıldırım a speedy recovery in the comments below!
