MARIO GOMEZ HAS announced that he’s leaving Turkish side Besiktas because of the political turmoil in the country.

Posting a detailed message to his Facebook page, the veteran German striker, who netted twice at this summer’s Euro 2016 tournament, said it was ‘a difficult decision’ to walk away.

“I have to tell you Besiktas fans personally that it is very heavy for me that I will not be playing for this great club in front of you wonderful fans in this unique stadium anymore”, the 31-year-old wrote.

The reason for this is completely down to the political situation! There are no sporting or any other reasons that have made me make this decision. It is purely down to the terrible events that happened in the last few days. I hope you can understand that! I huge thanks to the club, to you fans and to all the people with whom my family and I had a lot of wonderful times! It was a fantastic year with the Championship providing the absolute highlight. I hope that these political problems can be solved in a peaceful manner soon. Then it would be my great wish to play for Besiktas again! The club and the country grew very close to my heart in this past year. Hope to see you again soon.”

Gomez was on loan at Besiktas from Fiorentina and conjured his best season for years, hitting a magnificent 26 league goals from 33 games to secure the club’s first domestic championship in seven years.

Gomez isn’t the first footballer to leave the country because of recent disturbances.

Argentina international Jose Sosa has asked for a move away from Besiktas after the terror attack at Istanbul Airport last month.

“My priority is my family, football comes next”, he said.

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