Kartal quits Fenerbahce, president says he stays

A coach resigned 'never to return' in the post-match press conference — then his own president overruled him minutes later.

What happened. Ismail Kartal announced his resignation at the post-match press conference after Fenerbahce drew 1-1 at home to Roma in the Champions League, saying he was leaving 'never to return'. Minutes later, club president Aziz Yildrim said Kartal would stay in the job.

• Kartal, 65, said he was stepping aside 'to clear the way for the club'.
• Yildrim publicly downplayed the manager's remarks and insisted he continue.
• The two men gave conflicting versions of Kartal's future within minutes.

“I am his senior, I told him to continue”

— Aziz Yildrim

Fenerbahce must now clarify whether Kartal is in charge, with the club's Champions League campaign under way.

In this story

Fenerbahçe

More to read

Football Italia

What Lukaku’s Fenerbahce move means for Napoli, Arsenal and Gabriel Jesus

BBC Sport

Lukaku seals 'emotional' move to Fenerbahce

Football Italia

Official: Lukaku completes move from Napoli to Fenerbahce for €6m plus bonus

Football Italia

Report Lukaku has Fenerbahce jet ready, Fayed sale to Frosinone also agreed