Istanbul Basaksehir appoint Okan Buruk as coach

The Istanbul club have found their new man in Okan Buruk.

Super Lig outfit Istanbul Basaksehir have announced on Tuesday the appointment of Okan Buruk as the club’s new head coach.

The Turkish coach, who recently left Super Lig minnows Caykur Rizespor after guiding them to an 11th place finish last season, is tasked with guiding the club to their first domestic title, a feat which they were close to achieving until an untimely collapse in the final weeks of the 2018-2019 season.

Basaksehir have also announced the departure of striker Emmanuel Adebayor, defender Serdar Tasci and forward Riad Bajic. Riad Bajic, who was on loan with Basaksehir from Italian club Udinese last season, has joined Super Lig outfit Konyaspor on a season long transfer.

Buruk is a name familiar to Basaksehir fans and will be at home in his new job. The 46-year-old retired from playing professional football after a two-year stint with the club in 2010, at the time known as Istanbul Buyuksehir Belediyespor before their name change.

The Turkish coach signed a two-year contract with Basaksehir with the possibility of a one-year extension.

Club president Goksel Gumusdag heaped praise on their new man, saying he has full confidence in Buruk and are looking forward to success under his tenure.