Emre Belözoglu replaces interim Dirk Kuijt just before Liverpool duel

While the lights in Istanbul flash, the Turkish Emre Belözoglu is already in the dug‑out, ready to replace interim‑coach Dirk Kuijt for the upcoming confrontation with Liverpool, after he has become the new head coach of Fenerbahçe and will lead his first match.

Emre Belözoglu is the new head coach of Fenerbahçe. The 46‑year‑old Turkish makes the move from Kasimpasa. With that, the interim‑period of Dirk Kuijt ends after just one match.

Last weekend Fenerbahçe, under his guidance, lost at home to Göztepe. On Wednesday evening against Liverpool, Belözoglu will already be in the dug‑out. A post about the appointment appeared on Instagram.

It is still unclear whether Kuijt will get a place in Belözoglu's technical staff. The Dutchman said on Tuesday evening that he would like to stay at Fenerbahçe. “One thing I know for sure: I want to stay here. I think the most important thing is that Fenerbahçe makes the right choices for its future.”

Belözoglu and Kuijt were previously teammates at Fenerbahçe. Together they were part of the last squad of the Turkish top club that became league champion, twelve years ago now. “I am ready to give everything for this club, but the decisions are made by others.”