He wants to become a permanent figure at Beşiktaş, but the start has been anything but ideal.
Colombian goalkeeper Devis Vasquez arrived in Istanbul with high expectations, yet his path to the starting XI is already more complicated than anticipated.
Beşiktaş secured Vasquez on loan from AS Roma after his spell at Milan, hoping his profile and experience at major European clubs would instantly boost competition between the posts. However, a crucial detail shaped his early days in Istanbul: by the time he signed, he had gone 257 days without playing an official match. That long break has clearly influenced his integration and current role within the squad.
While many expected the new signing to walk straight into the starting lineup, the Başakşehir match changed the narrative. In that game, young goalkeeper Ersin Destanoğlu seized his chance and produced a standout performance. His composure, key saves and overall command of the penalty area made him one of the best players on the pitch, strengthening his case to remain first choice.
Ersin’s display did more than just win three points; it reshaped the internal hierarchy. The growing belief around the team is that the goalkeeping position is, for now, Ersin’s to lose. For Vasquez, this means his journey toward the starting XI will be longer and more demanding than he envisaged when putting pen to paper.
Despite this slow start, the Colombian has been clear about his ambitions. Speaking to the club’s own channel after signing, Vasquez underlined how motivated he is to make his mark in black and white. He emphasized that joining Beşiktaş was not a mere short-term detour, but a step he hopes will turn into a long-term stay.
Vasquez also highlighted his connection to Turkish football through a familiar name:
“I know Oscar Cordoba and had the chance to train with him,” he said. “Before I came, people told me a lot about how big Beşiktaş is.” For a Colombian goalkeeper, Cordoba’s successful spell in Turkey stands as both inspiration and a benchmark, adding extra meaning to this move.
The new signing made it clear that his target is not simply to fill a squad spot:
“As long as I am here, I will do my best. I will give everything to ensure the club triggers the purchase option,” Vasquez insisted. These words underline a clear determination: he does not want Beşiktaş to be just another line on his CV, but the club where he finally settles and becomes a key figure.
Club president Serdal Adalı also expressed strong confidence in the transfer. He pointed out that bringing in a goalkeeper who has been part of Milan and Roma shows the level of profile Beşiktaş is aiming for. According to Adalı, even though Vasquez is currently on loan, the expectation is that his performance will justify a long-term relationship. The message from the boardroom is that the club sees him as more than temporary cover.
At the moment, however, the sporting reality is straightforward: performance decides, and Ersin Destanoğlu is performing. His recent form suggests he is not ready to surrender the gloves to anyone, no matter their background or former clubs. For the coaching staff, this is a positive dilemma – having two ambitious goalkeepers fighting for the same spot tends to raise standards in training and matches alike.
From Vasquez’s perspective, the 257-day gap without official football is the first obstacle he must overcome. Match rhythm, timing, and communication with the backline cannot be fully restored in a few sessions on the training pitch. His initial period at Beşiktaş will likely be about regaining sharpness, adjusting to the team’s defensive structure, and understanding the expectations of the technical staff.
The Colombian will also need to adapt to the specific pressures of playing for one of Turkey’s biggest clubs. At Beşiktaş, every mistake by a goalkeeper is magnified, every save is celebrated, and patience can be short. Supporters demand consistency and personality between the posts. Handling this mental pressure is just as important as shot-stopping or distribution.
Another key factor will be how he uses domestic cup games, rotation matches, or possible European fixtures. For new goalkeepers, these appearances often become decisive auditions. If Vasquez turns in commanding displays whenever he is called upon, he can gradually shift the internal balance in his favour. Conversely, any shaky performances may delay his breakthrough and solidify Ersin’s status even more.
The situation also raises an interesting tactical dimension for the coach. Ersin and Vasquez have different experiences and profiles: one is a homegrown talent accustomed to the league and the environment, the other is an international goalkeeper shaped by the training methods and tempo of Serie A. Depending on the opponent and the competition, the coach might choose different skill sets – for example, a keeper more comfortable playing out from the back in certain matches, or one more dominant in aerial duels in others.
Long term, Beşiktaş must also think strategically. If Ersin continues to improve, he will inevitably attract interest from abroad. In that case, having Vasquez adapted, integrated, and ready could prevent a future gap in such a crucial position. Meanwhile, if Vasquez confirms his potential and the club executes the purchase option, Beşiktaş could secure a goalkeeper in his prime years with experience in top European environments.
For Vasquez personally, this moment represents a crossroads in his career. After spells at big-name clubs where he struggled to become an undisputed starter, Beşiktaş offers the chance to finally gain continuity and a leading role. Failing to establish himself here might label him as a permanent backup at big clubs rather than a legitimate number one. Succeeding, on the other hand, could turn him into a central figure in one of the most passionate football cities in the world.
The next few months will therefore be decisive. Every training session becomes a test of his hunger and professionalism. How quickly he learns the language of the dressing room, how he bonds with defenders, and how he responds to not playing immediately will all influence the coach’s trust. Goalkeepers are often judged not just on isolated saves, but on their reliability, leadership, and presence.
For now, the narrative around Beşiktaş’s goal is one of competition rather than crisis. Ersin Destanoğlu has made it crystal clear that he intends to keep his place, using his strong outing against Başakşehir as a powerful statement. Devis Vasquez, meanwhile, is only at the beginning of his challenge: rebuilding his form after a long hiatus, proving himself in every opportunity, and convincing the club to turn his loan into a permanent deal.
What is certain is that Beşiktaş will benefit from this rivalry. With a young, ambitious local product and a motivated Colombian with big-club experience pushing each other, the black-and-white side can expect higher standards in one of the most critical positions on the field. Whether Vasquez manages to transform his difficult start into a lasting success story will depend on how he navigates this demanding, but potentially career-defining, chapter in Istanbul.