Fenerbahçe coach Kartal discusses derby lineup amid club future uncertainty

Fenerbahçe head coach İsmail Kartal outlined his defensive preferences ahead of the Super Lig derby against Galatasaray, stating that young player Oppong is ready and has not yet experienced the pressure of such matches. Kartal also noted that Archie Brown and Levent Mercan have gained experience in these fixtures and that the team will take the field with players who know how to play derbies.

Kartal emphasized that derbies are always competitive and difficult, adding that the squad has worked hard to win and that everyone understands their responsibilities and the significance of the match. He said the game plan is built around winning, but if a result cannot be obtained, the aim is to return to Kadıköy without defeat.

“The game plan is built around winning, but if a result cannot be obtained, the aim is to return to Kadıköy without defeat.”

Separately, Fenerbahçe suffered a 2-1 away defeat to Galatasaray in the ninth week of the Super Lig, placing Kartal's future under scrutiny and drawing criticism from fans. According to TRT Spor, Aziz Yıldırım and board members held a meeting on Kartal's future, during which the possibility of parting ways with the experienced coach was raised, though differing opinions were also reported within the management.

With uncertainty over the technical director's position continuing, Fenerbahçe's management is expected to issue an official statement this evening to clarify the situation. No final decision on whether Kartal will part ways with the club has been confirmed, and clarity is expected to come from the club's announcement.

Fenerbahçe supporters are awaiting the upcoming statement from the management regarding Kartal's future.