The transfer appeared to have collapsed on Tuesday when the Turkish club issued a strongly worded statement accusing Al-Ittihad of failing to submit the required documentation to finalise the deal. Fenerbahce claimed the delay had jeopardised a complex agreement that also involved Morocco striker Youssef En-Nesyri moving in the opposite direction.
Less than 24 hours later, the situation took a decisive turn. On Wednesday, Fenerbahce confirmed that the administrative issues had been resolved and that Kante had officially joined the club, ending his two-and-a-half-year stint in Saudi Arabia.
The 34-year-old midfielder arrived at Al-Ittihad in 2023 after leaving Chelsea, where he established himself as one of the most decorated and respected midfielders of his generation. During his time at Stamford Bridge, Kante won the Champions League, Premier League, Europa League and FA Cup, cementing his reputation for tireless work rate and tactical intelligence.
Kante initially rose to global prominence with Leicester City, playing a pivotal role in the club’s remarkable Premier League title triumph in the 2015–16 season before securing a move to Chelsea the following year.
The transfer also carries implications for Al-Ittihad’s squad reshaping. En-Nesyri, 28, is expected to help fill the void left by Karim Benzema, who departed the club earlier this week to join Saudi Pro League rivals Al-Hilal. His arrival signals a shift in Al-Ittihad’s attacking options following Benzema’s exit.
For Fenerbahce, Kante’s signing represents a significant statement of intent. Despite the late complications, the Turkish giants have secured a player with vast elite-level experience, adding leadership and pedigree to their midfield as they prepare for domestic and continental challenges ahead.