Fenerbahce president asks fans for financial support

Ali Koc has appealed to the club’s fans for support amid staggering financial debt which is crippling the club.

Fenerbahce president Ali Koc has kicked off a campaign to boost the coffers of the financially-strapped Turkish football club.

Speaking to fans of the club in Koln, Germany during the weekend, Koc said his administration is starting a “grand campaign for the financial independence of Fenerbahce”.

As with most Super Lig clubs, Fenerbahce have been hit hard by unprecedented level of debt. The most recent figure is reported to be 4.2 billion Turkish Lira (TL) — approximately €675 million.

“I am saddened that people did not fully understand or downplayed the financial problems Fenerbahce faces and our call for sacrifice,” Koc said.

The 2018-2019 season is, without a doubt, the toughest season the club has ever faced in their history as they fight for their existence not just financially but also on the pitch. The football club are currently 13th with 31 points, and are facing the threat of relegation after weeks of lackluster performances.

Koc underlined the severity of the club’s finances, pointing out they faced sanctions from UEFA due to Financial Fair Play obligations which has made matters more complicated.

Pleading for donations from club supporters, he said he believes the club can overcome the difficulties “together.”

The club’s president said every amount would be used to wipe out debts, noting that they depend on everyone “from kids, who may donate their allowance, to rich businessmen.”