Drama surrounding cancer-stricken youngster from Bundesliga club

From football dream to fight for survival: Union Berlin's goalkeeper talent Berkin Arslanogullari is fighting for his life after a cancer diagnosis and leg amputation.

Berlin – Berkin Arslanogullari is facing what is probably the biggest fight of his life so far.

Only recently, the talented goalkeeper from Union Berlin was still dreaming of a career in football, but then he received a devastating diagnosis: bone cancer. Despite intensive chemotherapy, the disease could not be defeated. As a last resort, one of his legs had to be amputated.

Training with the pros and playing in a friendly: Arslanogullari fought his way up to Union’s U19 team

He began his football career in the youth team of the “Iron Ones”. Through hard work and perseverance he managed to get promoted to the U19 team. Like every young talent at this age, he had only one goal in mind: to make the jump to the first team.

The moments when he first trained with the professionals and played in a friendly match for the first team were certainly highlights of his young career. These memories will stay with him forever and could also give him strength in his fight against cancer.

Union goalkeeper Arslanogullari fights cancer – left leg had to be amputated

The diagnosis of bone cancer was a shock for Arslanogullari and his family. Despite all efforts, including intensive chemotherapy, the disease could not be stopped.

The amputation of his left lower leg was particularly tragic. A minimal but life-saving measure. The young goalkeeper is continuing his chemotherapy treatments to fight the serious illness.

Union Berlin calls for donations for cancer sufferer Arslanogullari

The financial burden of the illness is enormous. Arslanogullari's family has already exhausted all their resources. Therefore, a family friend launched the “New Start for Berkin” fundraising campaign on the gofundme platform. The aim of the campaign is to raise two million euros to cover the costs of treatment, rehabilitation and adaptation to the new living conditions. This includes, among other things, a handicapped-accessible apartment and a leg prosthesis. So far, 55,800 euros have been collected (as of September 16, 2024).

Union Berlin and the club foundation are showing solidarity and supporting the fundraising campaign both financially and by spreading the word on their social media. However, there is still a long way to go. The capital club's social media department has recently been criticized for a controversial post. (kus)