🤯 Manager resigns after Champions match, but club say no; why

İsmail Kartal resigned as manager of Fenerbahçe after their Champions League match against Roma, but the club maintains that he will remain in charge. The 65-year-old coach announced his departure during a press conference, stating he made the decision to clear the way for the club. Kartal's resignation came as a surprise to the team's players, including Archie Brown, who scored the goal against Roma.

Fenerbahçe president Aziz Yıldırım contradicted Kartal's statement, insisting that he will not leave the club. Kartal has been in charge of Fenerbahçe for four spells, including between 2023 and 2024. This is his fourth tenure as the club's manager. Fenerbahçe recently secured a place in the Champions League proper, a first since the 2008/2009 season, by eliminating Górnik Zabrze, Sturm Graz, and Lyon.

However, the team's start in the Süper Lig has been disappointing, as they have only taken six points from a possible 12. Rivals Galatasaray currently lead the table with ten points. Fenerbahçe invested heavily in new players this season, with investments totaling €164 million.