Dirk Kuyt Takes Temporary Charge of Fenerbahce
Former Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt has been named interim first-team coach at Fenerbahce after Ismail Kartal's resignation, the Turkish club announced on Wednesday.
Illustration: AI-generated image
Dirk Kuyt has been appointed as interim head of the first team at Turkish giants Fenerbahce, the club announced on Wednesday. The Dutchman steps in following the resignation of Ismail Kartal.
Kartal left his role on Tuesday, a day after Fenerbahce lost 2-1 to bitter rivals Galatasaray in the Super Lig. With the club sitting fifth in the table and six points behind leaders Galatasaray, the board turned to a familiar face.
Kuyt, who made over 200 appearances for Liverpool between 2006 and 2012, spent two seasons at Fenerbahce from 2012, winning the Turkish league title in 2014. He returned to the Istanbul club in June as an assistant coach under Kartal.
Before joining the Fenerbahce staff, Kuyt managed Belgian side Beerschot and Dutch clubs ADO Den Haag and FC Dordrecht. The 46-year-old will now lead the first team until a permanent head coach is appointed, according to the club's statement.
The move brings Kuyt back into the spotlight at a club with high expectations. Fenerbahce have not won the Super Lig since 2014, the year Kuyt helped them to glory as a player. Fans will be hoping his experience can steady the ship during a difficult patch.
