Fenerbahce appoint Emre Belozoglu as head coach

Turkish Super Lig club Fenerbahce announced Tuesday the appointment of Emre Belozoglu as their new head coach, marking the 46-year-old's return to the club where he previously served as a player, sporting director and manager.

"An agreement has been signed with Mr Emre Belozoglu to take up the role of Head Coach of the First Team," the Istanbul club said in a statement submitted to Turkiye's Public Disclosure Platform (KAP).

Belozoglu signed an 18-month contract with the Istanbul club, according to Turkish media reports, although the duration was not specified in Fenerbahce's official stock exchange filing.

Fenerbahce also welcomed their former captain back in a statement on US social media company X, highlighting his longstanding connection with the club.

"Whether on the pitch as a player or on the touchline as a manager, Emre Belozoglu has always been part of this great family; now, as Fenerbahce's Head Coach, he is at the helm to ensure the success of the Stripes," the club said.

"Wearing this crest is a source of pride. Serving it is a responsibility.

"Welcome home, Emre Belozoglu!" it added.

Belozoglu arrives from Kasimpasa, where he guided the Istanbul side to fifth place in the Turkish Super Lig with 17 points from their opening 10 matches this season.

The former Türkiye international played for Fenerbahce across three spells (2008-2012, 2013-2015 and 2019-2020), winning six trophies before serving as sporting director and taking charge of the first team as head coach in March 2021, a position he held until the end of the 2020-21 season.

During his previous spell as head coach, Belozoglu recorded seven victories, two draws and one defeat in 10 matches.

He subsequently managed Istanbul Basaksehir, Ankaragucu, Antalyaspor and Kasimpasa before returning to Fenerbahce.