Karius Rips Up Besiktas Contract Over Wage Dispute
Loris Karius has terminated his contract with Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas following a row with the club’s hierarchy over unpaid wages.
Karius joined Besiktas at the start of the 2018/2019 campaign on a two-season loan deal from Liverpool, where he still has a contract which runs through to the summer of 2022.
The 26-year-old German goalkeeper made 32 appearances in all competitions for Besiktas before the Turkish top flight was halted because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Karius reported Besiktas to FIFA last year for unpaid wages and he repeated the action again last month for a second time.
“Hi everyone,” wrote Karius on Instagram on Monday. “Today I terminated my contract with Besiktas.
“It’s a shame it comes to an end like this but you should know that I have tried everything to solve this situation without any problems. I was very patient for months telling the board over and over again.
“Same things happened already last year. Unfortunately, they haven’t tried to solve this situational problem and even refused my suggestion to help by taking a pay cut.
“It’s important to me that you know I really enjoyed playing for this club a lot. Besiktas can be proud having such passionate fans behind them always giving amazing support. You always supported me in good and bad times and I will always remember you in the best way! Also I want to say thank you to all my teammates, coaching staff including all people working for the club. You welcomed me with arms wide open from day one.
“Thank you so much!”
Karius will return to Liverpool and fight for the number one jersey with Alisson Becker and Adrian.
Karius’ last outing for Jurgen Klopp’s men came in the 2018 UEFA Champions League final, where he was at fault for two goals in a 3-1 loss to Real Madrid.
