Fenerbahce Presidential Candidate Sadettin Saran Declines offer from Ali Koç, Outlines Vision for Club Overhaul
Istanbul, Turkey – Fenerbahçe presidential candidate Sadettin Saran revealed he recently turned down an offer from current president Ali Koç to head the club’s football branch, reaffirming his commitment to running for the presidency independently. Saran detailed his decision and broader vision for the club in an interview with Sports Digitale,emphasizing the need for unity and important change within the organization.
Saran, who previously served as Fenerbahçe branch manager under Aziz Yıldırım – a period he recalls culminated in a championship win - stated he intends to seek a meeting with Yıldırım to solicit his advice should he win the election. he described Yıldırım as the individual who initially brought him into the Fenerbahçe community.
The candidate also offered a critical assessment of recent managerial pursuits, including approaches to both Antonio Conte and José Mourinho. While Conte ultimately proved unavailable, Saran expressed reservations about Mourinho, stating he “didn’t see the ambition of winning Mourinho in his eyes.” He cautioned Koç against pursuing a deal with mourinho, characterizing him as a “very difficult personality” and questioning his understanding of player psychology. He noted Mourinho was “left alone” despite making mistakes.
Saran’s platform centers on significant structural changes, including proposed bylaw amendments limiting presidential terms to a maximum of two if a championship isn’t secured and a requirement for presidents who fail to deliver a title within three years to refrain from seeking re-election. These changes would be presented to the General Assembly for approval if he is elected.He also expressed strong support for Aykut Kocaman and Volkan Demirel, believing Demirel specifically possesses the qualities to restore the passionate atmosphere of Kadıköy stadium. He made an offer to Kocaman, acknowledging the coach may decline due to existing commitments.
“I did not except that he offered me to give me his football branch, I said I could not agree with you,” Saran stated, emphasizing his dedication to fulfilling his promise to the fans by remaining a candidate even with limited support.
