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Fenerbahce chief rejects Kartal resignation after Roma bottle incident

Fenerbahce's president has declined coach Ismail Kartal's offer to step down following a volatile incident during the club's Champions League match against AS Roma.

LSN World News · 11 September 2026

Fenerbahce chief rejects Kartal resignation after Roma bottle incident

The Turkish Super Lig club's leadership moved swiftly to stabilize the coaching position after a supporter threw a bottle toward Kartal during Wednesday's European fixture at the Stadio Olimpico. The projectile narrowly missed the bench area as tensions ran high in the away section.

Kartal, who has been at the helm of Fenerbahce since taking charge last season, submitted his resignation in the aftermath of the incident. However, the club's hierarchy declined to accept the resignation, affirming their continued backing for the coach despite the unsettling circumstances.

The confrontation highlighted simmering frustrations within the fanbase as Fenerbahce continues its European campaign under challenging circumstances. Club officials have yet to issue formal statements regarding potential disciplinary measures against the supporter responsible for the bottle-throwing incident.

Fenerbahce's stance underscores a commitment to maintaining stability in the dugout during the demanding Champions League competition, with the club choosing to focus on moving forward rather than making personnel changes in response to fan conduct.