06.11.2026 16:50
Fenerbahçe's new head coach Emre Belözoğlu gave a striking response at the signing ceremony to a question about his friendship with Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk. Responding to the question suggesting that the yellow-navy fans were uncomfortable with this closeness, Belözoğlu said, "There are things more important than friendships and close bonds. We came for the championship. My rival is my rival even if he is my own brother."
Fenerbahçe's new head coach Emre Belözoğlu answered questions from members of the press at the signing ceremony held at Chobani Stadium. Among the questions directed at Belözoğlu was his long-standing friendship with Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk. While it was stated that the positive relationship between the two coaches caused discomfort among Fenerbahçe fans, Belözoğlu's response drew attention.
HE WAS ASKED ABOUT HIS FRIENDSHIP WITH OKAN BURUK
At the press conference, Emre Belözoğlu was asked the question, “Your positive relationship with Okan Buruk is making Fenerbahçe fans uncomfortable. Would you say something on this matter to reassure Fenerbahçe fans?”
Belözoğlu, stating that friendships from the past deserve respect, said that he has always set certain boundaries in his personal relationships.
Belözoğlu said, “Friendships and bonds from the past are something we must respect. I have always maintained distance in my relationships. There must be distance even if it is your spouse; I have maintained that distance.”
“I EVEN HID FENERBAHÇE FROM MY WIFE”
Emre Belözoğlu, who also shared an event he experienced in the past while explaining his commitment to Fenerbahçe, revealed that he did not tell even his wife about the transfer process to the yellow-and-navy club.
Belözoğlu said, “When Fenerbahçe was the matter, I did not share it even with my wife because I considered the confidentiality of this matter while I was transferring here. I would not exchange Fenerbahçe for anyone or anything. Fenerbahçe is very valuable and very important.”
“MY OPPONENT IS MY OPPONENT, EVEN IF HE IS MY OWN BROTHER”
Emphasizing that his friendship with Okan Buruk would not affect his responsibility toward Fenerbahçe, Belözoğlu stated that he would not make concessions when it comes to competition.
The new head coach expressed his determination with the words, “There are things more important than friendships and bonds. We came for the championship. My opponent is my opponent, even if he is my own brother. Fenerbahçe is above everything; I will continue to do whatever is necessary to motivate my group of players.”
“WE CAME FOR THE CHAMPIONSHIP”
Belözoğlu, expressing that he is aware of the responsibility that comes with being Fenerbahçe's head coach, reiterated that their goal is the championship. The experienced coach, stating that they will work to meet the expectations of the yellow-and-navy community, said that they will act in accordance with the club's values during this process.
Belözoğlu said, “We are aware of the responsibility of this seat. We will do everything in a manner befitting Fenerbahçe fandom so that the children are happy. I would never do things by hurting or upsetting people in a way unbefitting of Fenerbahçe fandom.”