Hull City owner Acun Ilicali has declared his steadfast support for manager Sergej Jakirovic, asserting that any potential failures in the upcoming Premier League season will not be attributed to the coach. Ilicali stressed that his commitment to Jakirovic remains firm, even if the team finds itself at the bottom of the league table. This assurance comes as the club embarks on a critical transfer window, which Ilicali believes will shape the club's trajectory for the next five years.
Ilicali acknowledged the daunting challenge ahead, particularly given the widespread predictions of Hull City's immediate return to the Championship. However, he drew a distinction between his relationship with Jakirovic and his past tenure with Liam Rosenior, stating that he and Jakirovic are "completely matching." He suggested that if the team struggles, the reasons may lie with the players, who could be young, inexperienced, or new to the Premier League, rather than with the manager's performance.
"I will stand by him if he loses games," Ilicali stated. "I will not be judging him by the position in the table. It will be what can we do more to make him successful."
The club has established a transfer budget of £200 million, encompassing transfer fees and wages, to facilitate a significant squad overhaul. Ilicali anticipates as many as 15 new players joining the team. He described this period as era-defining for Hull City, with the next two months being crucial for the club's future.
Ilicali explained the club's recruitment strategy, which focuses on players aspiring to play in the Premier League rather than those nearing the end of their careers. He noted the difficulty in attracting experienced Premier League players, who often have multiple offers and may be hesitant to join a team perceived as likely to be relegated. Instead, Hull City is targeting talent from leagues in Germany, Italy, France, and Spain.
Recent acquisitions include 22-year-old Senegalese centre-back Nobel Mendy from Rayo Vallecano and 23-year-old Greek goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis from Olympiacos. The club is also reportedly interested in Real Betis winger Pablo Garcia and has brought in teenage defender Lucas Herrington from Colorado Rapids. A move for Everton's Tim Iroegbunam is also considered possible, despite the midfielder's current hamstring injury.
This approach aims to spread risk, manage salary expenses, and potentially acquire players with future sell-on value. Ilicali emphasized the importance of acquiring "hungry players, real professionals, dedicated people" who possess a strong team spirit, which he believes was instrumental in the club's promotion.
Ilicali, who rose from a TV football reporter to a media entrepreneur, sees this challenge as another in his career. He is confident in the club's readiness for various scenarios, focusing on making sound decisions to minimize risk for the club's future.
The departure of former sporting director Jared Dublin was attributed to a difference in salary expectations following promotion. Ilicali has since appointed Okan Ozkan, with whom he previously worked at Fenerbahce, as the new sporting director.
Addressing skepticism about the team's prospects, Ilicali recalled similar predictions of relegation from the Championship last season. He likened the club's current situation to that of Leicester City ten years prior, while also citing Brentford and Brighton as models for sustainable Premier League success.
Ilicali has maintained an open line of communication with fans on social media regarding transfers, posting updates on new signings and ongoing recruitment efforts. He views himself as representing the ordinary fan, having once been in their position as a supporter queuing for tickets.
Looking ahead, Ilicali expressed a fondness for the "underdog" role and stated that remaining in the Premier League would be as significant an achievement as promotion. He envisions a future where Hull City could challenge for the top ten, which would then allow the club to attract more high-profile players.