Dirk Kuyt has returned to Fenerbahçe as an assistant manager, the Turkish club confirmed on Wednesday. The former Netherlands international will work alongside head coach İsmail Kartal, a long-serving figure in Turkish football.
Kuyt previously played for Fenerbahçe between 2012 and 2015, playing a key role in their 2014 league title win. The club statement highlighted his professionalism, work ethic, and fighting spirit, qualities that endeared him to the fanbase during his first spell. He scored in the 2007 Champions League final while playing for Liverpool.
Since retiring as a player, Kuyt has transitioned into coaching, managing Beerschot in Belgium, where he secured a second division title, as well as ADO Den Haag and FC Dordrecht in the Netherlands. His appointment comes as Fenerbahçe rebuilds its squad, having recently signed high-profile players such as N’Golo Kanté, Ederson, Marco Asensio, Nelson Semedo, and Mattéo Guendouzi.
Fenerbahçe finished second in the Turkish Super Lig last season, behind Galatasaray. Kuyt’s experience and tactical insight are expected to be valuable assets as the club aims to challenge for the title again next season. The return of a popular former player is also seen as a positive step in engaging with the club’s supporters.
