Deal collapses! Sérgio Conceição makes shocking U-turn on Fenerbahce move
Fenerbahce's search for a new head coach has taken another unexpected turn.
Details: According to renowned insider Fabrizio Romano, Portuguese manager Sérgio Conceição will not become Fenerbahce's new head coach, despite recent negotiations with the Turkish giants. The 51-year-old specialist has decided to reject the opportunity in Istanbul, preferring to wait for an offer from a club competing in one of Europe's top five leagues.
Interestingly, just a day earlier, reports suggested that Conceição was close to taking over the Turkish club. According to journalist Nicolò Schira, Fenerbahce had even prepared a lucrative contract running until the summer of 2028 in an attempt to convince the Portuguese manager.
However, the situation has now changed dramatically. Conceição is determined to continue his coaching career at the highest level of European football and is willing to remain without a club while waiting for a suitable opportunity.
Meanwhile, Fenerbahce must continue searching for a permanent replacement for İsmail Kartal, who departed following the defeat to Galatasaray on October 27. Former Liverpool star Dirk Kuyt is currently in temporary charge of the Istanbul side.
It is worth noting that Conceição previously enjoyed tremendous success with Porto, winning three Portuguese league titles. He also managed AC Milan and most recently Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad, which officially announced his departure in June 2026.
Reminder: Legend returns! Fenerbahce urgently appoints new head coach
Steven Perez
Dailysports's expert
