Eren Dinkçi: Wife's Leukemia Treatment and Uncertain Freiburg Future - "She is Priority Number One"

SC Freiburg attacker Eren Dinkçi has openly discussed his wife Cinja's ongoing treatment for leukemia and the significant role football plays in his life during this exceptionally difficult family period. The couple publicly announced Cinja's diagnosis in April, concurrently launching an appeal for potential stem-cell donors.

Following the announcement, fans from both Freiburg and Heidenheim responded generously, registering with the DKMS in large numbers. Dinkçi, who spent the latter half of the previous season on loan at his former club Heidenheim, subsequently dedicated a Bundesliga goal to his wife.

Registration campaigns initiated by Freiburg and Heidenheim have reportedly identified potential donors with a high compatibility rate. Dinkçi has now rejoined Freiburg after contributing three goals and three assists in 14 appearances during Heidenheim's unsuccessful fight against relegation.

Eren Dinkçi's Freiburg Future Remains Unresolved

Despite his return to Freiburg, Dinkçi's professional future remains uncertain. Coach Julian Schuster already has a deep attacking squad, and Dinkçi's former club, Werder Bremen, has maintained interest in the German-Turkish forward.

Nonetheless, Freiburg's sporting director, Klemens Hartenbach, commended Dinkçi's performance during preseason training. "Eren and the club are approaching preseason with full motivation," Hartenbach stated. "The way he has presented himself during these weeks has been very good. Should Eren remain with us, he will be a valuable player—just like everyone else."

While Dinkçi is still under contract with Freiburg, his wife's ongoing treatment at a local clinic is a significant factor influencing any transfer decisions. "The situation is clear," Dinkçi told Kicker. "I am here, I have a contract, and my wife is receiving treatment at the clinic in Freiburg. We will see what happens in the future."

"Considering the circumstances, she is doing relatively well," Dinkçi continued. "There are ups and downs. She continues to cope with everything very well, and we remain very positive. Nothing else helps in this situation."

"Priority number one is simply that she is doing well," Dinkçi emphasized. "I can distract myself well with football. It has become my anchor—something I can hold on to. Before and after that, my thoughts are with her."