Gaël Kakuta departs Sakaryaspor after mutual contract termination

Sakaryaspor have confirmed the departure of Gaël Kakuta after mutually terminating the Congolese midfielder’s contract. The Turkish Second Division club, who sit 18th in the 19-team league, announced the decision on Friday via a social media statement thanking the 34-year-old for his contributions.

Kakuta joined Sakaryaspor in February 2025 following a spell with Iranian side Esteghlal FC, bringing experience from a career that included formative years at RC Lens and Chelsea. During his 11-month stay in Turkey, he made 28 league appearances, scoring nine goals and providing five assists despite the team’s struggles near the bottom of the table.

The former France youth international remained active internationally during his Sakaryaspor tenure, earning a call-up to DR Congo’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. His departure leaves the club without their joint-top scorer this season as they battle relegation.

Kakuta becomes a free agent immediately and could seek a fourth club in three years. His proven output in Turkey’s second tier – averaging a goal contribution every 155 minutes – may attract interest from clubs in lower-tier European leagues or emerging markets.