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FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — Germany striker Mario Gomez says he is leaving Besiktas because of "the political situation" in Turkey.
Gomez scored 26 goals last season to help Besiktas win its first Turkish championship since 2009. Gomez played one season on loan from Fiorentina and Besiktas wanted to keep him.
Gomez says the "only reason" for leaving was "the political situation."
He says the "terrible events of the past few days" made him take the decision.
Gomez was on vacation during the failed coup attempt five days ago.
Gomez says he would love to return and play again for Besiktas once the "political problems are solved peacefully."
In a personal statement, he says he has become very fond of the club and the country in the past year.
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