Freiburg confirm loan return and contract extension for young full-back

SC Freiburg have confirmed a contract extension for Berkay Yilmaz, who is set to return from a two-year loan spell at 1. FC Nürnberg.

Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images

After two years on loan at 1. FC Nürnberg, Berkay Yilmaz will return to SC Freiburg ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

The Breisgau club confirmed the 21-year-old left-back’s return on Monday, while also announcing a new contract for him. The length of the deal was left undisclosed.

“Berkay adapted very well to life in the second division and showed a strong ability to balance attacking intent with defensive responsibilities during his time at Nürnberg,” said Freiburg sporting director Klemens Hartenbach.

“He has a huge heart and feels fully at home at SC, which makes for an excellent foundation for us to continue working together on the finer details of his game. We’re really looking forward to doing that. We would also like to thank Nürnberg for the outstanding cooperation we’ve all enjoyed throughout the loan spell.”

Yilmaz, who has featured 58 times for Nürnberg with a goal and eight assists to his name, said:

“I had a very good time in Nürnberg, for which I’m extremely grateful. But it was always my plan and my ambition to establish myself at SC. That makes today a very special day for me. I’m really looking forward to wearing the Freiburg shirt at the Europa-Park Stadion and being able to celebrate successful times together.”