Dirk Kuyt Takes the Helm as Fenerbahce's Interim Coach Ahead of Liverpool Clash

Dirk Kuyt, the former Dutch international, has taken on the role of interim coach at Fenerbahce, just a week before the Turkish side faces Liverpool in the Champions League. The 46-year-old steps in following the resignation of Ismail Kartal, who left his position after Fenerbahce's disappointing 2-1 defeat to rivals Galatasaray on Monday. Fenerbahce announced that Kuyt, who has a history with the club as a player—winning the Turkish league title in the 2013-14 season—will remain in charge until a permanent manager is appointed. His first test will be a league match against Goztepe on Saturday, paving the way for a highly anticipated Champions League encounter with Liverpool on November 4 at 17:45 GMT. Kuyt enjoyed a six-year spell at Anfield, where he scored 71 goals in 285 appearances and lifted the League Cup in 2012. Following his time at Liverpool, he played for Fenerbahce for three years before concluding his playing career at Feyenoord in 2017. Before becoming Fenerbahce's assistant in June 2026, Kuyt managed ADO Den Haag, Beerschot, and FC Dordrecht. Interestingly, Kartal had previously resigned in September but remained in his position after that resignation was not accepted. Now, Kuyt faces the challenge of turning around Fenerbahce's fortunes, with the team currently sitting fifth in the Turkish league, trailing league leaders Galatasaray by six points.