Istanbul: Turkish Super Lig club Fenerbahce appointed Ismail Kartal as head coach on a one-year contract, club official Cihan Kamer announced on Thursday. Speaking on the club's television channel, FB TV, Kamer said Fenerbahce had also reached an agreement with Oguz Cetin to serve as football director. In a filing to the Public Disclosure Platform (KAP), Fenerbahce confirmed that Kartal had signed a one-year deal.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kartal expressed his gratitude towards club president Aziz Yildirim and Cetin following the announcement. "Returning home again makes me very happy," Kartal said on FB TV. "Even having our president (Yildirim) call me and ask how I was doing was very emotional for me. We have very special memories together from the past."

Kartal acknowledged the emotional aspect of his return but emphasized the need to focus on the challenges ahead. "Emotions can only take us so far; we have to face reality. In the new season, my staff and I will overcome every challenge both in Trkiye and in Europe," he added. He expressed his excitement to begin his fourth stint in charge of the club and pledged to do everything possible not to disappoint the club's leadership or supporters.

The club also announced that former Fenerbahce player Dirk Kuyt will serve as one of Kartal's assistant coaches, further strengthening the coaching team for the upcoming season.