TIRANA, February 2 – Albanian midfielder Kristjan Asllani made a dramatic debut for Beşiktaş in the Turkish Super League, providing an assist but also receiving a red card.

He entered the match against Konyaspor in the 76th minute with the score level at 1-1. Shortly after coming on, Asllani assisted a goal from Kokçu, giving his team a 2-1 lead.

However, his impact quickly turned controversial. Two minutes later, he committed a foul near his own penalty area while attempting a counterattack. The referee initially awarded a free kick but issued a red card after consulting VAR, sending Asllani off immediately.

Despite the setback, Besiktas held on to win 2-1.

The 23-year-old midfielder, originally from Elbasan, had joined Besiktas from Torino. He had struggled to make an impact in the first half of the season with the Italian club, but now has the opportunity to prove himself in Turkey during the second half of the campaign.

Asllani expressed his motivation for representing the Turkish side, saying that his Albanian identity drives his determination. He described himself as a fighter who approaches the game with focus, courage, and commitment, emphasizing that he always acts with heart.

Besiktas covers Asllani’s salary while he is on loan, and the club holds an option to buy him permanently in the next summer transfer window, although the purchase is not mandatory.

/a.p./