Arda Turan, the celebrated Turkish football icon, has officially been appointed as the new head coach of Shakhtar Donetsk. At just 38 years old, Turan steps into a pivotal role tasked with steering one of Ukraine’s most prestigious clubs into a promising future.
His contract extends until the summer of 2027, making him the 39th manager to guide the Donetsk outfit in its rich history. This appointment marks a fresh chapter for both Turan and Shakhtar, blending the veteran’s vast experience as a player with his emerging talents as a coach.
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A New Era Begins at Shakhtar Donetsk
Shakhtar Donetsk, a club renowned for its competitive spirit and strong traditions, has entrusted Arda Turan with the responsibility of leading the team into the upcoming seasons. Known across Europe for their ambitions, the club expects nothing less than excellence. Turan himself expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “I’m proud to have joined Shakhtar – a great club with a rich history and great traditions. It’s a team well known across Europe, with the ambition to win every match.”
He says, “I hope to contribute to the club’s legacy and bring our fans many joyful moments through our play. We are deeply motivated to win trophies – both in Ukraine and in European competitions.” His words underline his dedication to uphold the club’s reputation and push for success both domestically and internationally.
Club Leadership’s Confidence in Turan
Shakhtar’s CEO, Serhii Palkin, highlighted the promising potential that Turan brings to the managerial position: “Arda Turan is a promising and ambitious coach with experience in the highly competitive Turkish league. As a player, he is a true legend of European football, and I believe that together with Shakhtar, he is destined for an equally successful coaching career – one that will bring trophies to the club both in Ukraine and on the international stage.”
Palkin’s endorsement reflects the club’s high expectations and faith in Turan’s ability to transition from an accomplished player to a successful coach.
From Midfield Maestro to Managerial Leader
Born on January 30, 1987, in Istanbul, Turan’s football journey began at Galatasaray, where he developed into a talented midfielder. His playing career spanned several top clubs, including Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, where he amassed numerous titles:
- Turkish Player of the Year: 2008, 2009, 2014, 2015
- Turkish Champion: 2008
- Spanish Champion: 2014, 2016
- UEFA Europa League Winner: 2012
- UEFA Super Cup Winner: 2012
With 100 caps and 16 goals for the Turkish national team, Turan also competed in major tournaments like UEFA Euro 2008 and UEFA Euro 2016, retiring from active play in September 2022.
Early Coaching Success and Future Ambitions
Transitioning quickly into coaching, Turan began managing Eyüpspor in April 2023. His impact was immediate and impressive, guiding the team to promotion from the Turkish First League to the Super Lig by the end of the 2023/24 campaign. In the following season, he secured a respectable 6th place finish in Turkey’s top division. Over 84 matches, Turan has demonstrated tactical acumen and leadership qualities that now set the stage for his new challenge with Shakhtar.
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FAQs
Who is Arda Turan?
Arda Turan is a former Turkish international footballer known for his successful career as a midfielder at clubs like Galatasaray, Atletico Madrid, and Barcelona.
When did Arda Turan become Shakhtar’s head coach?
He was appointed as the head coach of Shakhtar Donetsk in 2025, with a contract running until the summer of 2027.
What coaching experience does Arda Turan have?
Turan began his managerial career with Eyüpspor in Turkey, leading them to promotion to the Turkish Super Lig and achieving a 6th place finish in the following season.
What are Turan’s goals with Shakhtar?
He aims to help Shakhtar win trophies in both domestic Ukrainian competitions and European tournaments, continuing the club’s proud tradition.
How many managers has Shakhtar had before Turan?
Arda Turan is the 39th head coach in the history of Shakhtar Donetsk.
