Acun Ilıcalı Stays Positive Despite Fenerbahçe’s Derby Defeat
Fenerbahçe faced a disappointing 3-1 defeat against Galatasaray in the 6th week of the Trendyol Süper Lig derby. Following the match, the club’s Vice President Acun Ilıcalı addressed the press, expressing his feelings about the loss.
Ilıcalı started by acknowledging the team’s sadness over the unexpected defeat, stating, “We are saddened by the result, it was a defeat we did not anticipate. As the entire management and players, we are all very disappointed. It is important to underline that just as you don’t win a championship with one victory, you also don’t lose a championship with one defeat. Looking at the statistics, we were superior in all aspects. However, football is a game of results and we lost. Last season we were 5 points ahead and that did not bring us the championship. Just like last season did not, this season did not separate us from the championship.”
Confidence in Future Success
Despite the setback, Ilıcalı emphasized that the defeat does not hinder their future goals, saying, “We are Fenerbahçe, we are a strong community. A single defeat cannot shake a club. We are very pleased with our squad and our coach. We trust both our players and our coach. There is no dropping out of the race, hopelessness, or pessimism about the future from our side. We have full confidence in our players and our coach. The game played speaks for itself. In this situation, we are optimistic about the future, but of course, today we are very saddened.”
Ilıcalı also addressed questions about the performance of striker Youssef En-Nesyri, stating, “A player may not perform very well. What do you attribute Osimhen to, for example, was he very good today? He couldn’t play today, En-Nesyri couldn’t play either. Forwards do not find it easy to get opportunities in such derbies. There is no need to get into individual matters. I’m not claiming he played very well. They said Oosterwolde is not a footballer, now his current position speaks for itself. İrfan Can Kahveci was booed, but his progress is evident. If we evaluate on a daily basis, we make mistakes. Our belief is always about the future. I am quite optimistic about the future.”
Looking Ahead
In conclusion, Acun Ilıcalı’s optimism about Fenerbahçe’s future despite the recent defeat reflects the club’s strong mentality and determination. The team’s focus remains on regrouping and improving for the upcoming matches to stay in contention for the championship. As they continue to work hard and trust in their abilities, Fenerbahçe aims to bounce back from this defeat and showcase their true potential on the field.