English football training camp held in Esentepe

A football training camp titled MET Camp 26 Northern Cyprus took place at the Erdal Barut stadium in Esentepe. The event was organized by MET Sports and sponsored by the Evergreen Developments Group. Professional and semi-professional football players from England participated in the sessions alongside local Turkish Cypriot athletes. Organizers stated the event aimed to prepare participants for the 2026-2027 season. Players involved are reportedly connected to clubs including Chelsea, West Ham United, Queens Park Rangers, and Coventry City. While participants do not officially represent these clubs, the mention of these names has drawn significant attention. The event has raised concerns among Greek Cypriot authorities and stakeholders, who view such activities as a means of increasing the international visibility of the unrecognised entity. Calls for further investigation and official diplomatic actions have been issued in response to the event.