Barcelona star Arda Turan returns to Istanbul for treatment

Arda Turan has returned to Turkey to continue treatment on his right foot. Barcelona’s latest transfer has been struggling with an injury to his foot since joining earlier this summer. Turan was sidelined for the final week of pre-season training with the La Liga Champions.

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Turan signed a five-year deal with the La Liga champions last month but cannot play until January due to the FIFA transfer ban imposed on the club.

Barcelona cannot actually register Turan as an official Barcelona player until the turn of the year. The bearded winger has yet to receive a squad number as a result – although he would like the number 14 shirt currently occupied by Mascherano.

The Turkish international is permitted to train with the team but cannot play any competitive games including friendlies for the Champions League title holders.

Turkish national team manager Fatih Terim has called up Turan despite the bearded winger being unable to play at club level due to the FIFA transfer ban.