Ismail Kartal resigns as Fenerbahce coach following Champions League draw

Following a 1-1 draw against Roma in the Champions League on September 10, 2026, Fenerbahce head coach Ismail Kartal unexpectedly announced his resignation. The 65-year-old manager made the announcement during the post-match press conference, stating that he was stepping down to allow the club to move forward immediately. This decision marks the end of his fourth tenure at the helm of the Turkish team.

The resignation came as a surprise to both fans and players, including goalscorer Archie Brown, who expressed shock when informed of the news during a post-match interview. This event holds significance as it occurred immediately after Fenerbahce's first appearance in the Champions League League Phase in 18 years. While the club now faces the urgent task of appointing a new head coach, the team continues its domestic and European campaigns under the leadership of the current management.