Turkish media reports Fenerbahce edge closer to a deal, with Zinedine Zidane set to replace Mourinho.
Fenerbahce, the renowned Turkish football club, is on the verge of a significant change in management. The club's president, Ali Koç, is currently considering two candidates for the position: the domestic coach Ismail Kartal and the world-famous coach Zinedine Zidane.
Ismail Kartal, a respected figure in Turkish football, has expressed his readiness to take up the role at Fenerbahce. However, he is still awaiting a final decision from President Koç.
Meanwhile, Zidane, a legend in the world of football, has reportedly reached a preliminary deal with Fenerbahce. After a successful coaching career with Juventus, Real Madrid, and the French national team, Zidane is eager to bring his expertise to Istanbul.
Zidane's impressive resume includes guiding Real Madrid to three consecutive Champions League titles between 2016 and 2018, as well as leading the team to two La Liga championships during his two managerial spells at the Spanish club. His trophy cabinet also includes the 1998 FIFA World Cup and Euro 2000 with France, and the UEFA Champions League with Real Madrid in 2002.
Devin Ozek, the sporting director of Fenerbahce, has presented the club with several foreign managers, including Ange Postecoglou and Domenico Tedesco. However, Luciano Spalletti declined the offer, citing a wish to spend more time with his family.
Sabah daily reports that President Koç favours entrusting the team to an internationally recognised coach, suggesting that Zidane could fit this profile if contract negotiations are finalized. Zidane is expected to travel to Turkey to discuss salary and contract details, pending the completion of these negotiations.
Fenerbahce parted ways with Jose Mourinho on August 29, and the Portuguese coach is currently in talks with Russian clubs.
As the negotiations between Fenerbahce and Zidane continue, football fans eagerly await the official announcement of the new coach. If the deal is finalised, Zidane would become the latest in a long line of world-class coaches to lead Fenerbahce, joining the ranks of coaches such as Rudi Garcia, Dick Advocaat, and Robert Prosinečki.
