Michy Batshuayi releases statement as he explains controversial move between rival Turkish clubs

Michy Batshuayi has joined Galatasaray in what is sure to be one of the summer’s most controversial transfers.

The striker, who famously played for Chelsea and Crystal Palace, has spent the last two seasons playing for Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

Batshuayi will be turning out for Fenerbahce’s fiercest rivals next termCredit: GettyIn that time Batshuayi scored 44 goals in 75 matches for the club.

However with his contract coming to an end, the 30-year-old has made the rather risky move to their fiercest rivals.

One of football’s biggest characters, Batshuayi announced the move with a Batman-themed video, in keeping with his nickname, as ‘Batman’ looked over Galatasaray’s stadium with a red and yellow beam emerging.

The now-confirmed move has been a huge talking point in Turkish football with his wife, Amely Maria, revealing that their child has been the subject of death threats as a result of the link.

READ MORE ON FOOTBALLOn Instagram, she wrote: “When you don’t know what’s going on in the shadows, don’t point fingers at the innocent.

“The real culprits are those who don’t take responsibility.

“Shame on those who threaten my family and wish death on my child for football, and you dare to talk about family?

“What a shame!!! Racism and death threats. God sees you all.”

The striker teased the move with a Batman video on social media on TuesdayCredit: X

The striker’s move has sparked huge controversy due to their intense rivalryCredit: GettyBut after a loan spell with Besiktas earlier in his career, Batshuayi has now confirmed that he’ll be representing a third Istanbul-based club going into next term – crossing enemy lines in one of world football’s most intense rivalries.

He wrote: “A little over three years ago, I spread my wings in this exciting and passionate city of Istanbul.

“Some may have thought I was arriving here at the twilight of my career. Thanks to the clubs that trusted me and the support of the fans, I put on my goalscoring cape again and rediscovered the passion and light I needed to thrive once more in a competitive league.

“Free to sign since January, I waited for that trust to be renewed for the coming season. While I never doubted the intentions, I haven’t been moved by the actions.

“In light of this, it is now time for me to soar to take on a new challenge. I have decided to commit to Galatasaray and to mark my attachment to the city of Istanbul and the (Turkish) Super Lig.

“I understand the significance of my decision and this signing. I remain uptight and proud. I do not forget who I am or where I come from. But I also know where I am going.