Fenerbahçe manager Ismail Kartal remains in charge of the Turkish club despite abruptly announcing his resignation during a post-match press conference on Sept. 10, 2026, according to club president Aziz Yildirim.
Yildirim Rejects Resignation Amid Champions League Campaign
According to Turkey’s government-sponsored news outlet Anadolu Ajansı (AA), club president Aziz Yildirim publicly dismissed the departure on Thursday, Sept. 10, stating that Kartal stays at the helm. Yildirim emphasized that the entire Fenerbahçe community needs to stand behind the coach, adding via the club’s website that Kartal cannot leave his post as long as Yildirim remains president.
The sudden announcement followed a turbulent evening where an unidentified individual threw a water bottle at Kartal’s head following the draw against AS Roma. Yildirim pointed to that incident as a contributing factor behind the manager’s decision to tell the media that he would never return to the club.
Players Caught Off Guard by Abrupt Announcement
Fenerbahçe left back Archie Brown, who scored the club’s lone goal in the 1-1 draw, learned of his coach’s status in real time during a post-match media interview. When a team employee stepped in to relay the news, Brown turned his head in shock and asked, “What do you mean he resigned? … As what? As coach?”
https://x.com/erdemakbs/status/2098147321590517788
Kartal, who has worked on Fenerbahçe’s coaching staff on and off since 1996 and first took over as manager in 2014, told reporters that he stepped down to assist the club, its players, and future managers while time remained. Despite those remarks, club leadership immediately moved to block the exit and maintain continuity.
Fenerbahçe’s Current Standing and Roster Additions
Fenerbahçe currently sits ninth in the Süper Lig table with a 2-0-2 record. The club is competing in the Champions League for the first time in nearly two decades, marking their return to the tournament for the first time since the 2008-09 season.
During the summer transfer window, the club added significant firepower by signing Belgium’s all-time leading scorer Romelu Lukaku. Lukaku previously featured prominently in the World Cup, scoring a goal in the round of 16 to oust the United States before falling to eventual champion Spain in the quarterfinals.
Did you know?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ismail Kartal still the coach of Fenerbahçe?
Yes. According to club president Aziz Yildirim, Kartal remains the head coach despite attempting to resign after the match against AS Roma, with Yildirim stating that the manager cannot leave his post.
https://x.com/eurofootcom/status/2098145217568256045
Why did Ismail Kartal try to resign?
According to Yildirim, an incident where someone threw a water bottle at the coach’s head following the 1-1 Champions League draw contributed to Kartal’s abrupt announcement.
What league is Fenerbahçe currently playing in?
Fenerbahçe competes in the Süper Lig, where they hold a 2-0-2 record, and has returned to the Champions League for the first time since the 2008-09 season.
Stay Updated on Süper Lig Action
What do you think of Fenerbahçe’s chaotic Champions League debut and management drama? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts on the club’s season ahead.
Worth a look