Kuijt sees his former love Liverpool in Kadiköy as crucial chance

In his second match as interim‑coach of Fenerbahçe, Dirk Kuijt awaits a warm reunion with Liverpool. In the fourth round of the Champions League, Liverpool will play in Kadiköy. Kuijt called it a huge opportunity for the club and the players.

Historical connection with Liverpool

He said: “A great team, but Fenerbahçe is that too.” Kuijt played six seasons for Liverpool and is still held in high regard in the red district of the English port city.

Preparation for the Champions League challenge

On Wednesday he faces the difficult task of hurting The Reds. For Fenerbahçe it was crucial to reach the Champions League again after eighteen years. “If you play at that level, you know you will be up against impressive teams,” Kuijt explained. After the departure of Ismail Kartal, who stepped down after the defeat to Galatasaray, Kuijt has been leading the side since last week. Under his guidance Fenerbahçe lost at home to Göztepe on Saturday. On Wednesday Liverpool awaits in Kadiköy. “For me it will be a very important day,” he admitted. “But everything is about the club. Liverpool is a great team, but Fenerbahçe is that too,” he emphasized. At the press conference he refused a match at Anfield and said: “No, I want to see Liverpool right in Kadiköy.” The 46‑year‑old former international was referring to Fenerbahçe’s stadium. How Kuijt’s future looks remains unknown. “The club asked me to take charge for the games against Göztepe and Liverpool; I hope for a successful evening,” he said. He trusts the chairman, does not involve himself in the discussion about a new coach and wants to focus on the match.