Recent developments at Fenerbahçe (Fenerbahçe) have sparked excitement among supporters. The key question is whether Volkan Demirel (Volkan Demirel) is set to return.
Indications suggest the club legend is preparing for a comeback in yellow and navy. Newly elected president Sadettin Saran (Sadettin Saran) has offered Demirel a management role as part of a football restructuring plan.
Demirel’s potential return to Fenerbahçe
According to journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu (Yağız Sabuncuoğlu), Saran met Demirel to discuss his comeback in an executive capacity. The move is seen as a signal of a significant shift in the club’s football structure.
The goal is to integrate experienced, trusted figures into decision-making and daily operations. Demirel’s prospective role would bridge strategic planning with on-field processes.
Career at Fenerbahçe and beyond
Demirel guarded Fenerbahçe’s goal from 2002 to 2019, etching his name into club history. He won major domestic honors, including the Süper Lig, Turkish Cup and Super Cup.
After retiring in 2019, he served two seasons as an assistant coach at Fenerbahçe, then managed Fatih Karagümrük (Fatih Karagümrük), Hatayspor (Hatayspor) and Bodrum FK (Bodrum FK). By 2025, he had parted ways with Bodrum FK.
Saran’s offer and operational plans
Saran’s plan envisions Demirel taking an active role at the Samandıra (Samandıra) training complex and within football operations. The offer aligns with a strategy to empower seasoned club figures.
Similar roles may be proposed to other former Fenerbahçe stars in various departments, strengthening continuity across generations.
After the Dinamo Zagreb defeat
Fenerbahçe opened the Europa League group stage with a 3 1 away loss to Dinamo Zagreb (Dinamo Zagreb), starting with zero points. The result prompted activity within the coaching staff and management.
Upon returning from Zagreb, Saran plans key meetings with head coach Domenico Tedesco (Domenico Tedesco) and sporting director Devin Özek (Devin Özek) to map out the club’s next steps.
