Sergej Jakirovic has posted a goodbye message after the Turkish Super Lig season came to an end in dramatic fashion on Sunday evening.
The Bosnian, who is expected to take over at Hull City in the coming days, is leaving Kayserispor after half a season, which saw him save the club from relegation and become a popular figure amongst the club’s fanbase.
Despite leading 1-0 away at third-placed Samsunspor, Jakirovic’s side were controversially beaten 2-1 with goals in the 95th and 98th minute, with that result sealing a Europa League place for the hosts.
After flirting with relegation when the 48-year-old took charge in January, Jakirovic moved the club well away from danger to the relative comfort of 13th place, but is now heading for his first job in English football.
The game didn’t lack for controversy, with the East Yorkshire-bound head coach sent off in the 77th minute, having been pelted by bottles from the home crowd. After sarcastically applauding the Samsunspor supporters, Jakirovic’s yellow card was upgraded to red and he was given his marching orders.
“Our journey this season has come to an end, both for us and the team. Despite all the difficulties, we met expectations and achieved all our goals,” he wrote on social media as he prepares to leave the Super Lig club.
“We congratulate the home team (Samsunspor) on securing a place in European competitions and thank them for their hospitality.”
The former Dinamo Zagreb boss is expected to have a visa hearing on Wednesday, and any official confirmation of his appointment at City is not likely to happen until later in the week at the earliest, potentially even early next week.