Ex-Besiktas coach Sergen Yalcin refuses offer as club struggles in Super Lig

Besiktas, struggling in Türkiye’s top-tier football league Super Lig, has been searching for a new head coach.

However, former coach Sergen Yalcin declined their offer, citing his brother’s critical health condition. The decision leaves the club exploring alternative candidates to steer them out of their difficult situation.

Sergen Yalcin chooses family over returning to Besiktas coaching role

Sergen Yalcin, known for leading Besiktas to a historic league and cup double in 2021, recently met with Besiktas’ new President Serdal Adali to discuss the vacant coaching position. Despite speculation about his return, Yalcin made it clear that his focus remains on supporting his brother, who has been in intensive care for several days.

Speaking to Ekol TV, Yalcin explained his decision: “This is a job that requires full concentration. Right now, my priority is my family. My brother has been battling a serious illness for two and a half years. He’s in critical condition, and I cannot focus on football at this time.”

Adali respected Sergen Yalcin’s choice and expressed his understanding. “We met with Sergen, and he explained his situation. Health always comes first. We understand his decision and wish his family well,” Adali stated during an interview.

Yalcin also mentioned the emotional strain his brother’s illness has caused, saying, “Without health, money and positions lose all meaning. My brother promised me he would get better, and I believe he will keep his word.”

Besiktas evaluates new coaching options, international candidates

With Sergen Yalcin declining the position, Besiktas has started discussions with other potential candidates.

• Slaven Bilic, who coached the club between 2013 and 2015, is among the top choices. The Croatian manager has been without a team since leaving Saudi club Al Fateh. Bilic’s familiarity with the team and Turkish football makes him a strong contender.

• Another candidate under consideration is Razvan Lucescu, the current head coach of Greek side PAOK. Lucescu’s experience includes two league titles and two Greek Cup victories with PAOK. However, his recent four-month suspension and commitment to PAOK’s championship goals could hinder his availability for Besiktas.

• Former Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic is also on the list. Terzic, who previously worked as an assistant coach at Besiktas, is reportedly in talks with Tottenham Hotspur, which could complicate any approach from the Istanbul club.

• Besiktas is also considering local candidates, including Tayfun Korkut, who played for the team during his career. Korkut, with experience coaching clubs like Stuttgart and Hannover, is seen as a viable domestic option.

Other names mentioned include Mehmet Ozdilek, Ibrahim Uzulmez, and Tamer Tuna, although no official talks have been confirmed yet.

Fans express support for Sergen Yalcin while awaiting Besiktas’ decision

Besiktas fans have expressed understanding and support for Sergen Yalcin’s decision. Many took to social media to wish his brother a speedy recovery.

While Yalcin‘s absence is disappointing for some, others recognize the importance of family and health over professional obligations.

Meanwhile, supporters remain eager to see the club appoint a coach who can guide Besiktas through its current struggles. Besiktas’s performance this season has left fans concerned, and they hope the next appointment will bring stability and improvement.