Emre Belözoğlu appointed as Fenerbahçe head coach

Emre Belözoğlu has officially returned to Fenerbahçe as the new head coach following the resignation of İsmail Kartal. During a signing ceremony at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Sports Complex, Belözoğlu emphasized his growth since his previous tenure at the club, stating, “I am not the Emre from five years ago.” He expressed his commitment to winning championships and bringing high-quality, fast-paced play to the team.

Fenerbahçe board members Cihan Kamer and Önder Fırat expressed full confidence in Belözoğlu, noting his technical expertise and character. Belözoğlu plans to lead with a large technical staff, including an international assistant coach. He also addressed his professional relationship with Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk, noting that while they are friends, professional boundaries remain clear when competing for titles.

Following his appointment, reports suggest Belözoğlu is already evaluating the squad for the January transfer window. One potential departure mentioned is Serbian right-back Ognjen Mimovic, who has yet to make an official appearance for the club despite a 6.7 million euro transfer fee.