Trabzonspor has initiated talks with former Al-Ittihad manager Laurent Blanc as the Turkish Süper Lig club searches for a permanent head coach, according to French sports media reports.
The Search for a New Manager and Laurent Blanc’s Profile
French media outlets indicate that Laurent Blanc is open to a new assignment after spending nearly a year away from the touchline. Trabzonspor tapped Hüseyin Çimşir on an interim basis while evaluating candidates to replace Tekke. Blanc’s most recent managerial stint concluded on September 28, 2025, when his contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad ended. During his tenure in Saudi Arabia, which began on July 13, 2024, the French coach managed 46 matches and achieved a 2.39 points-per-game average, capturing both the league title and the King’s Cup during the 2024–2025 season.
Fatih Tekke Departs After Ferencvaros Defeat and Amedspor Loss
According to BBC News Türkçe, Fatih Tekke’s exit came in the wake of a 4-0 loss to Hungarian side Ferencvaros in the UEFA Avrupa Ligi play-off round on May 27, 2026, which dropped Trabzonspor into the UEFA Conference League. Following the match, Tekke announced his resignation in a press conference, stating that the defeat was unacceptable and that he wanted to impose his own penalty. Although the club initially rejected his resignation—allowing him to lead the team for a league fixture against Amedspor—a subsequent loss on August 31, 2026, prompted the Trabzonspor board to part ways with the coach after an 18-month tenure.
Did you know? Trabzonspor secured their spot in the UEFA Europa Ligi play-off round by winning the Turkish Cup in the previous campaign, setting up high-stakes European fixtures that ultimately shaped the club’s current managerial transition.
Laurent Blanc’s Extensive Club and International Resume
Born on November 19, 1965, in Alès, France, Laurent Blanc brings a wealth of high-profile experience to the table. His coaching career kicked off at Bordeaux, where he managed 159 matches between 2007 and 2010. He then took charge of the France national team for 27 games before moving to Paris Saint-Germain in 2013. At PSG, Blanc oversaw 173 fixtures with a 2.36 points-per-game average. His career path also includes spells at Al-Rayyan, Olympique Lyon, and Al-Ittihad. Before moving to the bench, Blanc enjoyed a storied playing career across Europe, featuring for Montpellier, Napoli, Saint-Etienne, Auxerre, Barcelona, Marseille, Inter, and Manchester United, where he finished his playing days in 2003.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Fatih Tekke leave Trabzonspor?
According to BBC News Türkçe, Fatih Tekke initially resigned following a 4-0 UEFA Europa Ligi play-off defeat to Ferencvaros. Although the club initially kept him on for the match against Amedspor, a subsequent loss on August 31, 2026, led the board to part ways with him.
What was Laurent Blanc’s last club job?
French media reports note that Laurent Blanc last managed Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, where he won the league and King’s Cup before his tenure ended in September 2025.
Who is currently managing Trabzonspor on an interim basis?
Hüseyin Çimşir took over the team temporarily following the departure of Fatih Tekke while the club evaluates permanent managerial candidates like Laurent Blanc.
Call-to-Action: What do you think of Laurent Blanc potentially taking over at Trabzonspor? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and subscribe to our newsletter for daily Süper Lig updates.
Related reading