Fenerbahce appoint ex-Liverpool striker as interim boss
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineTurkish giants Fenerbahce have appointed former Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt to oversee their first team on an interim basis following the resignation of head coach Ismail Kartal.
The club confirmed the decision after a series of disappointing results in domestic and European competitions, with Kuyt stepping up from his previous role as an assistant coach.
In a statement announcing the change, Fenerbahce said: “Following the resignation of Ismail Kartal, our club has appointed Dirk Kuyt as the technical coordinator of our Football A Team until a new head coach is determined.”
Kuyt will oversee the team while the club searches for a permanent successor to lead the side for the remainder of the 2026-27 campaign.
Kartal’s departure came despite having guided Fenerbahce back to the Champions League for the first time in nearly two decades. However, a series of disappointing results against major rivals increased pressure on the coach.
A home defeat to Besiktas and an away loss to Galatasaray further damaged the club’s position in the domestic title race, while a 6-0 Champions League defeat to Aston Villa proved another major setback.
The Netherlands international has already begun his new duties and is expected to lead the team until the upcoming international break, giving the club time to consider its options for a permanent appointment.
Kuyt is familiar with Fenerbahce, having represented the club between 2012 and 2015 during a successful playing spell in Istanbul.
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During his three years as a player, the former Liverpool forward won the Turkish Super Lig, the Turkish Cup and the Turkish Super Cup.
His appointment represents his most significant challenge since moving into coaching, with the 46-year-old now tasked with helping the team recover from its recent setbacks.
Although Kuyt’s role is currently temporary, his performances in the dugout could influence the club’s assessment of its long-term coaching options as Fenerbahce seek to return to winning ways.
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