Former Liverpool forward Dirk Kuyt has been appointed interim manager of Fenerbahce, just days before the Turkish club face his former side in the Champions League.
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The club confirmed that Kuyt would remain in the role “until a new head coach is appointed”, handing the Dutchman an immediate opportunity to steady the team during a demanding period.
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His first match will be Saturday’s Turkish league fixture against Goztepe, before Fenerbahce host Liverpool in the Champions League on Wednesday, 4 November, with kick-off scheduled for 17:45 GMT.
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Former Liverpool forward takes charge
Kuyt is familiar with both clubs, having enjoyed spells as a player at Liverpool and Fenerbahce during his professional career.
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The former Netherlands international spent six years at Anfield, scoring 71 goals in 285 appearances and helping Liverpool win the League Cup in 2012.
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He joined Fenerbahce after leaving Liverpool and spent three years with the Turkish side, winning the league title during the 2013-14 season.
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Kuyt later played for Feyenoord before retiring in 2017. He subsequently moved into management, taking charge of ADO Den Haag, Beerschot and FC Dordrecht before returning to Fenerbahce as an assistant in June 2026.
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His appointment offers the club a familiar figure as they look to improve their results and prepare for a high-profile European fixture.
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Fenerbahce seek response after Galatasaray defeat
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Kartal’s departure followed a damaging loss to Galatasaray, which left Fenerbahce fifth in the Turkish top flight and six points behind their Istanbul rivals at the summit.
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The manager had previously attempted to step down in September, but the club rejected his resignation and he remained in the position until Monday’s announcement.
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Kuyt now faces the challenge of improving Fenerbahce’s domestic form while preparing the squad for Liverpool’s visit.
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The Champions League encounter will also reunite the interim manager with the club where he spent a significant part of his playing career.
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However, his immediate priority will be Saturday’s meeting with Goztepe, which provides an early opportunity to make an impression before the European tie.
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