Who Is Tuncay Şanlı? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on January 16, 1982, Tuncay Şanlı is currently 43 years old. He gained fame not only for his skills on the pitch but also for his leadership qualities as a manager. Tuncay's career highlights include stints with clubs such as FC Utrecht, Middlesbrough, and Fenerbahçe, as well as representing the Turkish national team. His strategic mindset continues to evolve as he transitions into his managerial role.
| Occupation | Footballer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 16, 1982 |
| Age | 43 Years |
| Birth Place | Sakarya, Turkey |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country | Turkey |
Popularity
Tuncay Şanlı's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at an athletic height of approximately 1.80 m (5 feet 11 inches), Tuncay has maintained a remarkable physique even after transitioning into management. His weight is around 75 kg (165 lbs), making him fit and agile. His dedication to fitness plays a significant role in his approach to both playing and coaching.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Tuncay Şanlı remains private about his personal life. While he has been linked to various relationships in the past, he has not publicly confirmed any current boyfriend or girlfriend. Tuncay has always prioritized his family and career, often stating that his focus is on nurturing young talent in football while maintaining close ties with his family.
On 13 June 2007, Middlesbrough confirmed they had agreed personal terms with Tuncay and the move was now subject to a medical. Tuncay arrived in Middlesbrough on 18 June 2007, having signed a four-year contract. After passing his medical on 22 June 2007, he attained a work permit on 4 July 2007, and completed his free transfer.
In July 2007, Tuncay was interviewed by the Evening Gazette and talked about his ambitions for the upcoming season. He said: "My aim was to play in Europe one day and I have done that in previous seasons. It is also very important for me to play in the Premier League and that, too, is going to happen.
But I want to get Middlesbrough back into Europe. That is my target. " On 15 July 2007, Tuncay made his debut in a Boro shirt against German team Schalke 04 in Austria. Known for his passionate affinity with fans at his beloved Fenerbahçe, Tuncay developed the same kind of relationship with the fans of Middlesbrough.
His efforts were not unnoticed, with Middlesbrough supporters singing in his favour, "We've only got one player!" in reference to their admiration of his non-stop attitude.
Net Worth and Salary
Tuncay Şanlı's net worth is estimated to be in the range of $10 million as of 2025. His wealth has primarily come from his extensive career as a football player and manager, along with endorsements and business ventures. As a manager, his salary is believed to be competitive within the realm of football management, which significantly contributes to his overall net worth.
Career, Business, and Investments
Following his retirement from professional play, Tuncay has successfully transitioned into a managerial role, where he continues to influence the game. His coaching philosophy focuses on skill development and tactical awareness, earning him respect within the football community. In addition, Tuncay has made several investments in youth football academies and sports clinics throughout Turkey, aiming to nurture the next generation of football talent.
Tuncay began his career with his local club, Sakaryaspor before joining one of the largest clubs in Turkey, Fenerbahçe in 2002. He became a popular player at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium and he made international headlines after he scored a hat-trick against Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League in December 2004.
After winning three Süper Lig titles with Fenerbahçe he left for English club Middlesbrough on a free transfer.
Social Network
Tuncay Şanlı is active on various social media platforms where he shares insights into his life as a manager and his thoughts on football. He has garnered a substantial following, with thousands of fans connecting with him on platforms such as Instagram and Twitter. His social media presence allows him to inspire others while maintaining a close relationship with his fanbase.
Tuncay's endless energy and passion shown during matches has won him many plaudits. In May 2009, Matt Le Tissier of Sky Sports acknowledged his performances: "If they [Boro] had 11 Tuncay's they'd be in the top half of the table; this boy is quality, he works his socks off as well.
He showed great technique with the overhead kick and was a great example for the rest of the team – it's just a shame there are not a few more like him in the side." The 2008–09 season saw him pick up all four of the club's major awards for 2009: the Players Player of the Year, Garmin Player of the Year, the Middlesbrough F.C.
Official Supporters' Club Prize and the Terrace Legends Award. He won the Player of the Year with a massive 75% of the vote.
Education
Tuncay Şanlı holds a degree in physical education and sports, which has contributed to his knowledge in training methodologies and athletic performance. His educational background is complemented by continuous professional development in coaching certifications, bolstering his qualifications as a football manager.
Tuncay signed for Stoke City on 28 August 2009 for a fee of £5 million and signed a four-year contract. He became manager Tony Pulis' fifth signing of the summer transfer window, having also signed his Middlesbrough teammate Robert Huth the previous day.
He was eligible to play for Stoke the day after his transfer in the fourth league game of the season, and made his debut coming on as a substitute for Ricardo Fuller in the 84th minute, against Sunderland at the Britannia Stadium.
He made his first start for Stoke in a third-round League Cup game against Blackpool, setting up two goals and winning a penalty. He continued to make only brief substitute appearances in the Premier League.
A significant moment came during an away match to Hull on 8 November 2009, in which he was substituted off in the 87th minute after only coming on six minutes earlier. Although much was made after the event, Tuncay subsequently denied rumours that he was unhappy and insisted that his future lies with the Premier League club.
After eight brief substitute league appearances, he made his first start away to Arsenal on 5 December 2009. He scored his first goal for Stoke in the Premier League on 12 December 2009 in a home match against Wigan. He also scored the first premier league goal of 2010 when he headed a 12th-minute goal against Fulham on 5 January.
Over the course of the season Tuncay only started 13 games.
