Fenerbahce appoint former Liverpool star Dirk Kuyt as interim manager after Ismail Kartal resignation

Fenerbahce appoint former Liverpool star Dirk Kuyt as interim manager after Ismail Kartal resignation Fenerbahce have appointed former Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt as interim manager following the resignation of Ismail Kartal after a disappointing run of results. The Turkish giants confirmed on Wednesday that the 46-year-old Dutchman would take charge of the first team while the club searches for a permanent replacement. Kartal departed on Tuesday following Fenerbahce’s 2-1 defeat to fierce rivals Galatasaray, which left them fifth in the Turkish Super Lig. The Istanbul derby defeat proved decisive for Kartal, whose fourth spell in charge had come under increasing scrutiny following inconsistent domestic and European performances. Fenerbahce confirmed Kuyt’s appointment in an official statement published on social media. “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,” the statement read. Kuyt had been serving as Kartal’s assistant since returning to Fenerbahce in June, having previously enjoyed a successful playing career with the Turkish club. The former Netherlands international spent three seasons at Fenerbahce between 2012 and 2015 after leaving Liverpool. He helped the club win the Turkish Super Lig title in 2013-14, alongside domestic cup and Super Cup honours. His familiarity with the club and existing involvement in the coaching setup provide continuity during another period of managerial uncertainty. Kuyt previously spent six years at Liverpool, establishing himself as a popular figure through his work rate and versatility. He made more than 200 Premier League appearances for the Merseyside club and helped them win the League Cup in 2012. After retiring from professional football, Kuyt moved into coaching and initially worked with Feyenoord’s youth teams. His first senior managerial appointment came at ADO Den Haag in 2022, although that spell ended after several months. He subsequently took charge of Belgian side Beerschot in December 2023 and guided them to promotion to the country’s top division. However, his tenure ended in 2025 following a difficult campaign that resulted in relegation. Kuyt later returned to Dutch football with FC Dordrecht before accepting the opportunity to rejoin Fenerbahce as assistant manager. He now faces the challenge of stabilising the team after a difficult start to the season. Kartal’s departure followed a turbulent period that included heavy European defeats and setbacks against domestic rivals. Fenerbahce are expected to continue their search for a permanent head coach while Kuyt oversees first-team preparations. The Dutchman could make his interim managerial debut against Goztepe in the Super Lig, depending on the timing of the club’s next appointment.