Ismail Kartal resigns from Fenerbahçe minutes after Roma draw

Ismail Kartal quit as Fenerbahçe head coach just minutes after the side’s 1-1 draw with Roma in the Champions League. BBC Sport reports that the Turkish manager made the announcement in his post-match press conference, saying he plans to never return to the club where he previously played and also worked as an assistant coach.

A decision right after the whistle

Kartal revealed his departure comes as a way to “make room” for the club, adding that the decision was made “together as a team”. He noted he had been in charge for three months, having returned to Fenerbahçe in June 2026 for his fourth spell as manager. The club’s return to the Champions League after 18 years was a key part of that project.

But his exit lands amid pressure on results: Fenerbahçe sit ninth in the Turkish Super Lig with two wins and two defeats, and this was only their second Champions League appearance. Kartal also pointed to the role’s “pressure” and a mid-match incident where he was hit by a bottle thrown from the stands.

The president rejects it

Fenerbahçe president Aziz Yildirim did not accept Kartal’s resignation. As reported by BBC Sport, Yildirim said in a statement published on the club’s website that “Ismail Kartal is still in charge” and that the coach remains head coach until Yildirim leaves.

Yildirim confirmed he spoke to Kartal after the press conference and highlighted how constant criticism from both supporters and the media contributed to the “pressure”. He also said the club identified the fan involved in the bottle incident and that the person has been banned from the stadium.

In the immediate aftermath, players were clearly stunned. English defender Archie Brown said he had no idea about Kartal resigning when asked after the match: “What do you mean he resigned? As coach?” According to BBC Sport, Kartal has previously won the Turkish Super Cup in 2014 as a manager and secured two league titles during his playing career.