Deschamps linked with Fenerbahçe job after Kartal's resignation

Didier Deschamps is one of the names circulating in Turkey to take over Fenerbahçe, whose manager Ismail Kartal resigned on Monday after a 2-1 defeat to Galatasaray — with a brace from Victor Osimhen — in Istanbul’s intercontinental derby. Dirk Kuyt, the former Liverpool striker brought into the club’s staff last June, has been named interim manager pending a permanent appointment.

At 58, Deschamps left the French national team after nearly fourteen years in charge, ending with a fourth-place finish at the 2026 World Cup in North America. According to available information, he is considering a sabbatical year before resuming a career on a bench, either in club or international football. His name is being mentioned in several European countries, but he reportedly does not feature on Manchester United’s shortlist, where the club’s hierarchy are said to have advanced contacts with Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann to replace Michael Carrick.

The list of potential candidates for the Fenerbahçe position is long and illustrious. Turkish media also cite Gareth Southgate, Roberto Martinez, Joachim Löw, Antonio Conte, Vincenzo Montella, as well as Pep Guardiola and Arne Slot. The Istanbul club, which boasts N’Golo Kanté, Mattéo Guendouzi and Mason Greenwood in its ranks, is seeking a profile capable of rivalling Galatasaray consistently in the Süper Lig title race.