Baku: Fenerbahce President Aziz Yildirim stated that Ismail Kartal will continue as the club's head coach, despite Kartal's announcement of his resignation following a 1-1 draw with Roma in their Champions League opener.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Yildirim expressed surprise at the resignation decision, emphasizing that neither he nor anyone else in the club was aware of Kartal's intentions beforehand. Yildirim made it clear to reporters after the match that Ismail Kartal remains in his position and urged the entire Fenerbahce community to support the coach.

Yildirim firmly stated, "As long as I am here, Ismail Kartal is the head coach. He cannot leave until I leave." He also revealed that Kartal's resignation was triggered by an incident where a water bottle was thrown at him following the match. Yildirim's remarks came after Kartal had announced his resignation during the post-match press conference.