Liverpool Reds face Fenerbahce as Kuyt steps in after Kartal quits

Ismail Kartal resigned as Fenerbahce head coach after a 2‑1 loss to Galatasaray on Monday, ending his fourth spell in charge of the Turkish club. The defeat marked a further setback in a season that has seen the side struggle for consistency.

Kartal's resignation ends turbulent spell

Earlier, Kartal had said he would step down following a Champions League defeat to Roma last month, but he remained on the bench until this week. The claim was made in a press conference after the 2‑0 loss in Italy.

Fenerbahce were hammered 6‑0 by Aston Villa two weeks ago, underscoring the team's recent difficulties. The heavy defeat added pressure on the coaching staff. It also contributed to the board's decision to accept Kartal's resignation.

Kuyt steps up as interim boss

Dirk Kuyt, the former Liverpool striker, was promoted from assistant manager to interim head coach on Tuesday. Kuyt joined the Turkish side in June as Kartal’s deputy and now steps into the role with limited preparation. There will be a familiar face in the opposing dugout when the Liverpool Reds travel to Istanbul.

Kuyt will lead Fenerbahce for the first time against Goztepe on Saturday, before taking charge of the Champions League tie with Liverpool on Wednesday 4 November. The club confirmed the appointment in a statement that read: ‘Dirk Kuyt steps up from assistant manager.’ The match against the Reds will be his first high‑profile test.

Fenerbahce issued two brief statements on the matter. The Tuesday release said: ‘Our Head Coach, İsmail Kartal, has informed our management of his decision to resign, and following discussions, this decision has been evaluated with mutual understanding and respect.’ The Wednesday announcement added that Kuyt will remain head coach of the Football A Team until a permanent replacement is found.

Kuyt brings a wealth of experience, having spent six seasons at Liverpool, scoring 71 goals in 285 appearances and winning a League Cup. He later managed ADO Den Haag, Beerschot and FC Dordrecht, and is expected to stay in charge until the international break, covering at least three games. The appointment gives the Turkish side a seasoned former player to steady the ship ahead of the Champions League clash.