Alvaro Morata has launched a scathing parting shot at Galatasaray after his loan spell with the Turkish club was cut short, accusing them of failing to uphold “fundamental values” and honour agreed commitments.
The 32-year-old Spain captain joined Galatasaray on loan from AC Milan in February, with the option for a permanent transfer worth €10 million (£8.6m). However, just six months later, the deal has been terminated by mutual consent.
In a statement, Galatasaray confirmed that Milan will receive a €5 million (£4.3m) termination fee, while Morata has waived outstanding payments totalling €651,562 (£562,982).
The former Real Madrid, Juventus, and Chelsea striker said he had “no choice” but to accept a financial loss in order to secure his exit, claiming that the club had failed to meet contractual obligations.
“Unfortunately, I cannot say the same about my experience with the club,” Morata wrote on Instagram, after thanking Galatasaray supporters for their “affection, warmth, and support.”
“There were moments when the given word and the respect for fundamental values were not upheld.”
The Spanish forward, who scored six goals in 12 appearances for the Super Lig side, explained that his grievances went beyond the figure published in Galatasaray’s statement, insisting he was also forced to forgo other rights and bonuses he had earned during his time in Istanbul.
“For me, in life and in work, there are principles that should never be broken, such as respect for each person’s rights,” Morata continued. “Failing to recognise and compensate what has been earned is, to me, unacceptable and contrary to the values of fairness and professionalism I believe in.”
While players rarely air such disputes publicly, Morata said he felt compelled to give “the real explanation” to the fans, despite the risk of drawing criticism.
Galatasaray have yet to respond publicly to the allegations, though their official statement framed the departure as amicable and financially settled. The Turkish giants have endured a turbulent summer, with squad reshuffles and mounting off-field rumours surrounding several players.
Morata’s departure marks yet another twist in a career that has taken him across Europe’s top leagues. He joined Milan from Atletico Madrid last summer on a four-year contract but quickly found himself loaned to Galatasaray in February 2025. His spell in Turkey began promisingly, with goals in key domestic fixtures, but his tenure was overshadowed by growing tensions behind the scenes.
His next destination is expected to be Serie A newcomers Como, where he would link up with manager Cesc Fàbregas, a former teammate at Chelsea. The move is set to be another loan from Milan, allowing the striker to reunite with an old friend in a league where he has previously thrived during his time at Juventus.
Morata’s public criticism of Galatasaray will inevitably stir debate about player-club relations, transparency, and the pressures of elite football. His comments highlight the financial and contractual disputes that often remain behind closed doors, offering fans a rare glimpse into the less glamorous side of the sport.
For Galatasaray, losing a player of Morata’s calibre is a sporting setback, particularly given his strong start on the pitch. For Morata, the episode appears to have reinforced his belief in standing up for professional principles, even if doing so comes at a personal cost.
Whether this move to Como will provide the stability and respect he seeks remains to be seen. But as the forward prepares to embark on yet another chapter of his well-travelled career, his parting words from Istanbul leave no doubt about his feelings: gratitude for the fans, but disappointment and frustration with the club’s hierarchy.
BBC Sport has contacted Galatasaray for comment on Morata’s allegations.
