Fenerbahçe coach quits after Champions League start, president refuses to accept resignation

After Fenerbahçe’s 1-1 (0-1) result versus AS Roma in the Champions League opener, manager Ismail Kartal surprised everyone by declaring his resignation, saying it would open a path for the club’s progress. During the press conference he reiterated his decision, citing the need to make way for the team. President Aziz Yildirim immediately contradicted Kartal, stating the coach must continue and emphasizing the club’s familial atmosphere.

Yildirim linked Kartal’s abrupt move to a bottle being hurled at his head by a spectator. The club issued a statement confirming that the individual responsible for the bottle throw received a stadium ban. The dispute highlights internal tensions despite the on-field draw.