Fenerbahce returns to training after earthquake in Turkey, and Jorge Jesus speaks via video with young surviving fan

Fenerbahce’s return to training, after the earthquake in Turkey and Syria that killed more than 36,000 people, was marked by a lot of emotion. Not only because it represents a new beginning after a collective trauma, but also because of the club’s involvement with the population.

A banner reading “Peace be upon our country!” was extended by athletes on the field before training. In addition, captain Mert Yandas made a video call with a young fan named Efe, who is recovering in hospital.

He showed the boy around the club’s facilities and introduced him to some of the team and coaching staff. Among them, coach Jorge Jesus. The Portuguese tried to communicate with Efe. But, not speaking Turkish, she could only send kisses to him as a way of conveying a little affection.

Sports activities have been paralyzed in the last week in Turkish clubs. The national league round was suspended due to the earthquake, and games are expected to resume next weekend. However, teams from the most affected regions were allowed to withdraw from the competition. In the first division, this was the case for Hatayspor and Gaziantep.

Fenerbahce and other clubs have turned part of their headquarters into centers for collecting and distributing donations for those affected by the earthquake. Rivalries were even put aside. Since last week, trucks with the shields of the three clubs stamped on the front began to transport supplies to the affected regions. A way to show that they are united in favor of a greater theme.