Okan Alkan

Fenerbahçe (2007–2011)

In 2007, Alkan transferred to Süper Lig club Fenerbahçe. He started out with the B Genç team (14-16 year olds). The next season, he was promoted to the Süper Genç team (16-18), where he made 21 appearances in the DGSL (Deplasmanlı Süper Gençler Ligi). Alkan was promoted to the A2 team (U-20) at the beginning of the 2009–10 season, making 17 appearances. Alkan was the starting right-back of the Fenerbahçe A2 team that took part in the Milk Cup, losing to Manchester United 2–1 in the semi-finals. Alkan was sent off in the first half after handling the ball inside the penalty box. Alkan also began training with the senior team at the same time. One day, after a training session, Alkan was pulled aside by Roberto Carlos, who praised the youngsters potential, but also pointed out weaknesses he must improve upon. Roberto Carlos compared Alkan to his former Brazil teammate, Cafu. Gökhan Gönül has also helped tutor the youngster. Alkan explained in an interview with TFF.org that he and Gönül sit down after training to discuss what Alkan needs to do to improve his game. Several players were ineligible, either through injury or suspension, for a tie against Bursaspor in February 2010, prompting then-manager Christoph Daum to include Alkan, Gökay Iravul, and Furkan Aydın in the match squad. It was the first time Alkan was included in a match squad.

He made his professional debut for the club on 29 August 2010 against Manisaspor, playing the full ninety…

In April 2007, Alkan was called up to the Turkey U-15 squad for two friendlies against the Netherlands U-15s. Alkan came on as a sub in the first match, and then played the entirety of the second match. A year later, Alkan was called up to the U-16 squad, making one appearance for the squad. In September 2008, Alkan was called up to the Turkey U-17 team. In a match against the Malta U-17s, Alkan came on as a substitute in the 41st minute and contributed two assists. Alkan cites this performance as one of the turning points in his career. He participated in 13 matches (including substitutions) and scored one goal. Alkan was the starting right back for the Turkey squad at the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup. They were knocked out by Colombia in the quarter-finals after a 1–1 draw (Colombia won 5–3 on penalties). Alkan was also selected for the U-18 squad five times in 2009, but was not capped. Alkan was promoted to the U-19 team in 2010. Alkan was the starting right back for the U-19 team that finished second in Group 4 of the 2010 UEFA European Under-19 Football Championship elite qualification behind Spain. He made his debut for the U-21 team on 5 September 2012 in a friendly match against Italy.

Alkan, who has drawn comparisons to Gökhan Gönül and Cafu, can play along the right flank, at either right back or right winger.

Alkan has five brothers and one sister. In his free time he enjoys playing table tennis, billiards, and PlayStation.