14 Facts About Arif Erdem

Arif Erdem was born on 2 January 1972 and is a Turkish retired football manager and former professional player who played in the forward position.

Arif Erdem was a part of the Turkey national team that finished third at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Arif Erdem managed Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediyespor from 2011 to 2012.

Arif Erdem played for Zeytinburnuspor before signing his first professional contract with Galatasaray on 1 June 1991.

Arif Erdem made 29 total appearances in his first season with the club, scoring four goals.

Arif Erdem made fewer appearances the following season, providing four goals in 18 appearances as the club achieved a domestic treble.

Arif Erdem began his international career with the Turkey U21 national team in 1991, scoring one goal in 10 caps.

Arif Erdem participated in the Akdeniz Cup with the Turkish Olympic team in 1993, and earned his first senior team cap in 1994.

Arif Erdem was called up, but Turkey didn't achieve any points.

Arif Erdem was a significant part of the team, especially in a winning clash against co-host Belgium.

Arif Erdem took a part at 2002 FIFA World Cup as well, but he didn't play much.

Arif Erdem had been an assistant coach with Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediyespor since 2006.

Arif Erdem is of Albanian descent, through his parents who left Kumanovo.

Arif Erdem reportedly fled to Greece in 2016 after the failed Turkish coup of 2016, due to his supposed links to the Gulen movement, categorized by the Turkish government as a terrorist organization.