Fenerbahce manager Ismail Kartal announced his immediate resignation Thursday night after his team's 1-1 Champions League draw against Roma, a decision that followed him being hit by a bottle thrown from the stands. The 65-year-old, in his fourth spell as manager for the Istanbul club, stated in a post-match press conference that he was stepping down to pave the way for the club's future.
Kartal's announcement surprised his players, including goalscorer Archie Brown, who expressed his shock. "What do you mean he resigned? As coach? He's not the coach any more? He said this just now? I didn't know about this," Brown stated during a live interview.
Despite Kartal's declaration, club president Aziz Yildirim has stated that Kartal remains the manager. "Ismail Kartal is still in charge. The club should support our coach. Until I leave, Ismail Kartal is the coach of Fenerbahce," Yildirim said in a statement. He criticized fans and media for their negative reception of the team's performance and achievements, particularly their return to the Champions League after 18 years.
"Instead of applauding" the club's Champions League qualification, Yildirim argued, positive analysis was being "buried." He added that fans should "protect the values of their club" and that commentators were "demonizing things." Yildirim confirmed he spoke with Kartal, who cited the bottle incident and the general pressure of the role as reasons for his decision. The club president emphasized the need for support, stating, "You can't show support by throwing punches at him like this." He asserted that Kartal would continue as coach.
Fenerbahce confirmed that the individual responsible for throwing the bottle had been identified, their statement taken, and a stadium ban issued. Kartal previously served Fenerbahce as a player, assistant coach, and manager, winning multiple trophies, including the Turkish Super Cup in 2014 during his first managerial tenure.