2-1 Derby Defeat Prompts Kartal Resignation as Dirk Kuyt Steps Up
Fenerbahce appointed former Netherlands international Dirk Kuyt as interim manager on October 28, 2026, following the resignation of Ismail Kartal. The 46-year-old takes immediate charge of the first team while the club searches for a permanent replacement.
Kartal stepped down after a 2-1 defeat against rivals Galatasaray left Fenerbahce fifth in the Turkish Super Lig table. Kuyt had been serving as an assistant coach under Kartal since returning to the Istanbul side in June.
Fenerbahce
club“Following Ismail Kartal’s resignation, our club has appointed Dirk Kuyt as the technical manager of our Football A Team until our new technical director is determined.”
Istanbul Technical Leadership Restructured Following Derby Loss
The coaching change alters squad management directly ahead of Fenerbahce’s upcoming Super Lig fixture against Goztepe. Kuyt steps into the top role to stabilize a first team coming off inconsistent domestic performances and heavy European defeats.
İsmail Kartal
coachThe transition comes during a crucial autumn period as Fenerbahce attempt to close the gap on the top spots in the Super Lig table. Kuyt previously played for Fenerbahce between 2012 and 2015, winning the Turkish Super Lig title during the 2013-14 campaign.
Fenerbahce confirmed the operational change via an official club statement.