Turkish giants Fenerbahçe have appointed former Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt as their interim head coach following the resignation of Ismail Kartal.
The club confirmed the decision on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, with the Dutchman set to take charge of the first team until a permanent manager is appointed. Kuyt’s appointment comes after Fenerbahçe suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat against their fierce rivals Galatasaray, a result that left them fifth in the Turkish Super Lig, six points behind the league leaders.
The setback increased the pressure on Kartal, who subsequently stepped down from his position. The 46-year-old is familiar with Fenerbahçe, having played for the Istanbul club between 2012 and 2015 after leaving Liverpool.
During his time in Turkey, he helped the club win the Super Lig title in the 2013-14 season, alongside other domestic honours. Kuyt also enjoyed a successful spell at Liverpool between 2006 and 2012, making 285 appearances and scoring 71 goals for the Premier League club.
He became a popular figure among supporters thanks to his work rate, versatility and important contributions in major matches. After retiring from professional football in 2017, the former Netherlands international moved into coaching, managing clubs including ADO Den Haag, Beerschot and FC Dordrecht.
He returned to Fenerbahçe in June 2026 as an assistant coach under Kartal before being promoted to oversee the first team.
One of Kuyt’s key fixture will be preparing Fenerbahçe for their upcoming fixtures, including a Champions League meeting with his former club Liverpool on November 4.
The encounter will be particularly significant for the Dutchman, who spent six years at Anfield and scored in Liverpool’s defeat to AC Milan in the 2007 Champions League final.
Fenerbahçe will hope Kuyt can stabilise the team and improve their results while the club searches for a permanent head coa