(Credit: Imago)

Ridvan Yilmaz medical issues revealed as Rangers left-back agrees personal terms

Pranav is a sports journalist who graduated from St. Mary’s University, London, in Sports Journalism (MA). He has over nine years of experience working inside newsrooms, including but not limited to News Associates, The Non League Paper, HT Media Group, VAVEL, Sportskeeda, Chichester Observer and Eastbourne Herald. He specialises in news related to takeovers, club finances and injuries.

Published on:

08 Aug 2025, 6:41 am

Ridvan Yilmaz looks likely to seal his Rangers exit this summer amid interest from Turkish club Besiktas.

The Turkey international moved to Ibrox in 2022 from Besiktas and could be on his way back in the coming weeks.

Yilmaz, 24, has struggled with form and fitness issues since moving to Scotland and is no longer the first-choice left-back for the Gers.

Russell Martin urges on his Rangers players at Ibrox

Russell Martin has left Yilmaz out of the matchday squads. (Credit: Imago)

This story includes exclusive opinion from injury expert Dr Rajpal Brar, a doctor in physical therapy and a sports scientist.

Besiktas may be concerned about Yilmaz's fitness record

Besiktas have reportedly agreed personal terms Yilmaz, but they may have to take a few more steps before going ahead with it.

Dr Rajpal Brar believes that they may take a closer look at his hamstring injury history as he's missed a number of games in recent seasons because of it.

His form and lack of availability may also cause a potential issue, but the fact that he's used to the Turkish league may make it worth the risk.

Club	Appearances	Goals	Assists
Rangers	77	2	6
Besiktas	62	4	7

Yilmaz career stats.

Dr Brar told Ibrox News: "Besiktas will likely take a closer look at his hamstring injury history to assess recurrence risk and gauge if there’s anything outside of normal variance that they aren’t comfortable with.

"His fitness record is far from impressive, so that’s always a concern for a new club signing him.

"However, as he’s played in the league before, the adaptation would be easier and he’s still young at 24."

Read more: Yilmaz's agent issues an update on his move away from Rangers

Jefte has been the go-to left-back. (Credit: Imago)

Rangers must look to cash in on Ridvan Yilmaz

Selling Yilmaz is the right move for Rangers, as it aligns with their need to stop investing heavily in players unsuited to the SPFL's demands.

The Turkey international has struggled to adapt to the league’s physicality and pace, failing to secure a consistent starting role.

His departure would free up funds and wages, allowing Gers to target players better equipped for the Scottish game’s intensity and tactical requirements.

Overspending on talents like Yilmaz, who don’t fit the SPFL’s unique challenges, has strained the club’s finances without delivering results.

Prioritising pragmatic signings ensures competitiveness and sustainability in their pursuit of domestic success.

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Ridvan Yilmaz