Deschamps favourite of Fenerbahçe supporters after Kartal's surprise resignation

Ismaïl Kartal announced his resignation at a press conference on the evening of Fenerbahçe’s first Champions League match, a 1-1 draw against Roma. The manager, criticised by Canaries supporters for several months despite qualifying for the competition at Lyon’s expense in the playoffs, stepped down with these words: “Tonight, I congratulate my players and I resign from my position.” Dirk Kuyt, already a member of the staff, was named interim head coach.

Kartal’s succession is now fuelling speculation in Turkey, and the name of Didier Deschamps keeps coming up insistently. Free since the end of his 14-year reign as France national team manager, the former selector has stated his desire to continue his career at the highest level. According to several Turkish media outlets, he is clearly among the favourites of Fenerbahçe supporters, who consider the arrival of Pep Guardiola — also mentioned — far less realistic.

Other names are circulating on this list of potential candidates: Julian Nagelsmann, Arne Slot, Joachim Löw, as well as Englishmen Steven Gerrard and Wayne Rooney, and former Marseille manager Igor Tudor. The Istanbul club could also turn to a more surprising option: Fatih Terim, a legendary figure of rivals Galatasaray, eight-time Turkish champion with the Aslanlar and winner of the UEFA Cup in 2000 against Arsenal on penalties.

Should Deschamps accept, he would take charge of an experienced squad including notably N’Golo Kanté, Milan Škriniar, Romelu Lukaku, Mason Greenwood and Mattéo Guendouzi, the latter suspended for the first four Champions League matches.