28.05.2026 17:41
İsmail Kartal, the former head coach of Fenerbahçe, stated that after his name was mentioned for the head coach position, the two presidential candidates of the yellow-navy team did not meet with him and that he had not received any offer.
Former Fenerbahçe head coach İsmail Kartal broke his silence amid frequent mentions of his name ahead of the upcoming presidential election at the club. The experienced manager stated that he has not received any offers from presidential candidates Aziz Yıldırım and Hakan Safi.
''I HAVE HAD NO CONTACT''
Speaking exclusively to journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, Kartal said, "I have had no contact with either candidate to date. There is no official or unofficial offer conveyed to me."
''FENERBAHÇE IS MY HOME, I DON'T CALCULATE''
Despite denying the meeting claims, the experienced coach emphasized his loyalty to the yellow-navy club, saying, "When it comes to Fenerbahçe, I cannot view the matter solely through the lens of a position, duty, or title. This is my childhood, my home, and the community I belong to. I have never focused on 'what can I add to Fenerbahçe' before what this club makes me feel. Working for or taking responsibility for this emblem is not an expectation for me; it is purely a matter of the heart."
''I AM ALWAYS READY TO SUPPORT''
Stating that he has no personal expectations, İsmail Kartal concluded, "Today, I am not seeking a title or position. Regardless of the circumstances, I am ready to provide every possible support in the best interests of my club. Because some bonds cannot be explained with words, they can only be experienced. Fenerbahçe is my family."