Mario Branco Leaves Fenerbahçe After Three-Year Spell

Mario Branco, the sporting director at Fenerbahçe, has left the club. After three seasons in Istanbul, he parts ways with a legacy of big transfers and key team changes.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Branco joined Fenerbahçe three years ago but is now stepping down. He helped to bring in major names like head coach José Mourinho, star defender Milan Škriniar, midfielder Fred, and playmaker Dušan Tadić. He also shaped the career of wonderkid Arda Güler, one of the club’s brightest talents worldwide.

Branco’s signings have improved Fenerbahçe’s profile both domestically and in Europe.

A PERIOD OF AMBITION AND CHANGE

Under Branco’s leadership, Fenerbahçe aimed to restore its position as one of Turkey’s leading clubs. However, Fenerbahçe fell eight points short of leaders Galatasaray this season, and internal changes followed. Branco’s influence was to be reduced as his role was restructured ahead of his departure.

However, his transfers have laid the foundation for the future and drawn international attention to the club.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR FENERBAHÇE?

With Branco’s departure, Fenerbahçe begins a new phase as they plan for the next campaign. The club will need to appoint a new sporting director who can continue the team’s strengthing plans and support José Mourinho, who remains head coach.

Fenerbahçe needs to improve its consistency and close the gap on Galatasaray, which remains significant. Their next fixture is crucial in setting the tone for next season and closing the gap on their main rivals.