Fenerbahce backs Ismail Kartal amid Greenwood saga after resignation

Mason Greenwood's new club, Fenerbahce, issued a blunt statement on Friday confirming that head coach Ismail Kartal remains in his position, just 24 hours after the Turkish side announced his resignation following a 1-1 Champions League draw with Roma.

Kartal's resignation and the club's response

After the post‑match press conference in which Kartal declared his intention to quit, Fenerbahce president Aziz Yildirim publicly rejected the move, insisting the coach was still in charge. The club reiterated the message with a formal notice posted on its website, stating that Kartal would lead tomorrow’s training ahead of the Gaziantep FK fixture.

Greenwood's season and the wider context

Former Manchester United forward Greenwood, 24, joined Fenerbahce from Marseille this summer for a reported £33 million, with United receiving £13 million. He has featured 11 times, scoring four goals and providing three assists, but has endured a turbulent spell amid the club’s poor form.

Fenerbahce currently sit ninth in the Turkish top‑flight, and Yildirim has criticised fans and the media for pressuring Kartal. The manager recalled being struck by a water bottle from the stands during the Roma game, underscoring the hostile atmosphere.

English full‑back Archie Brown was taken by surprise when told of Kartal’s resignation, commenting, “As coach? He’s not the coach any more? I didn’t know about this.” His reaction highlights the confusion within the squad.

Sport Chris Burns Senior Sports Writer reported the story on 12 Sep 2026, accompanying three View images and an Image from UEFA. The article notes that Kartal is in his fourth spell as Fenerbahce manager and is 65 years old.

Despite the upheaval, the club’s official communication stressed that preparations for the upcoming match would continue under Kartal’s direction, with training scheduled for 11.30 am.