Ghanaian-Emirati left-back Richard Akonnor has joined Turkish club Goztepe from Al-Jazira on loan, completing a move that takes the 22-year-old defender from the UAE Pro League to the Super Lig.
Akonnor switches clubs after beginning the 2026-27 campaign with Al-Jazira, where he made one league appearance before moving to Turkey. He also featured in one AFC Champions League Elite qualifying match, registering an assist in a 22-minute appearance.
The left-footed defender, who was born in Accra, has joined Goztepe after progressing through Al-Jazira’s system. He moved from Liberty Pro’s Under-19 side to Al-Jazira Under-21 in 2020, before stepping up to Al-Jazira’s senior squad in 2022.
Akonnor made his first-team impact with limited minutes last season, while also helping Al-Jazira win the UAE League Cup in the 2024-25 campaign. He arrives at Goztepe with experience of domestic football in the United Arab Emirates and exposure to continental competition.
Standing at 1.85m, Akonnor’s preferred position is left-back and his stronger foot is his left. His move gives him the opportunity to continue his career in Turkey after spending the early part of his senior career with Al-Jazira.
Goztepe currently hold the defender’s registration for the 2026-27 season, while his market value is listed at €800,000. The transfer is a loan agreement rather than a permanent switch, with Akonnor remaining contracted to Al-Jazira beyond his spell in Turkey.
Akonnor’s arrival marks his first move outside the United Arab Emirates and Ghanaian-born defender will now continue his development in the Turkish top flight. His senior career to date has been built around Al-Jazira, where he progressed from the club’s Under-21 team to the first team after joining from Liberty Pro Under-19s.
The loan agreement includes a scheduled return to Al-Jazira at its conclusion. Richard Akonnor’s Goztepe loan runs until 30 June 2027.
