Fenerbahçe President Ali Koç broke his silence with hanging readability, addressing criticism, fan frustration, and future plans in a no-holds-barred interview.
Koç, whose tenure has stretched six turbulent years and not using a Süper Lig title, admitted to errors however insisted he’s not stepping down. “I have no debt to Fenerbahçe – I owe a championship,” he mentioned, underscoring his resolve to proper the ship.
Champions within the Boardroom, Not Yet on the Pitch
Under Koç’s management, Fenerbahçe’s monetary and institutional construction has stabilized. “We were once listed as the club closest to bankruptcy in UEFA’s reports,” he recalled. “Today, we’re financially strong and institutionally sound.”
But fiscal success hasn’t happy followers. “Our derby performances this year were unacceptable,” Koç admitted. “I understand the anger – expectations are high. In our day, we were loyal to the end. But Gen Z? They’re impatient and less sentimental.”
Pressure mounts, however no resignation but
Despite mounting requires his resignation and even a signature marketing campaign demanding his ouster, Koç stays agency. “It’s a democratic right, I respect it. But if the community wants me gone in such a dishonorable way, so be it,” he mentioned. Still, he added, “Gathering signatures to oust a president is not befitting of Fenerbahçe.”
He reiterated that he received’t run for reelection if a unprecedented congress is held.
Mourinho saga
Koç revealed that Jose Mourinho turned down a 36 million euros ($40.7 million), two-year provide in the course of the January window. “If he wants to leave, he knows the conditions. But I believe Mourinho will deliver us the title,” he mentioned. The membership is planning to usher in 4 to 6 top-tier gamers subsequent season – “the strongest squad yet,” Koç promised.
Osimhen? Never provided
Dispelling rumors, Koç clarified that Napoli’s Victor Osimhen was by no means provided to Fenerbahçe.
“He’s in a different league – never on our table,” he mentioned, noting the switch saga in the end performed to Galatasaray’s benefit after Icardi’s damage.
“System must be rebuilt”
Koç didn’t mince phrases about officiating, stating he has begun questioning referees’ intentions in latest months.
“We’ve had our own mistakes, but recent calls – or lack thereof – are troubling,” he mentioned, referencing a Galatasaray-Beşiktaş match the place “eight cards weren’t shown.”
More controversially, Koç cited a referee with 3,200 lawsuits filed over insults. “How can a referee profit 40–50 million lira from this?” he requested. “I told UEFA – they were stunned.”
Koç additionally took a swipe at presidential hopeful Hakan Bilal Kutlualp. “I’m impressed by his self-confidence,” Koç quipped, earlier than including, “This is the same man who called for our resignation during the 3 July scandal and testified against us. Now, some who served time walk with him.”
Source: www.dailysabah.com