Sergej Jakirovic remains on course to become the new head coach at Hull City after extensive talks with Tigers owner Acun Ilicali in recent weeks.
The Bosnian took charge of what was seemingly his final game at Kayserispor on Sunday. It was a dramatic affair away at Samsunspor with Jakirovic’s side conceding twice in stoppage time to lose 2-1. He was also sent off after being pelted with bottles by home fans.
That defeat ensured Kayseri would finish 13th in the Super Lig, while their hosts qualified for the Europa League after finishing third behind Galatasaray and Ilicali’s Fenerbahce.
News of Jakirovic’s imminent departure for the East Riding has not gone down well with supporters in Turkey, who remain determined to see their head coach remain after guiding them away from relegation trouble following his winter arrival.
Some supporters have even started a social media campaign to try and persuade the former Dinamo Zagreb chief to stay on at the near-33,000 capacity Kadir Has Stadium.
Unfortunately for them, it looks like their boss will be off to England with a visa hearing scheduled on Wednesday and a formal announcement expected from City in the coming days.
Here’s what they’ve been saying…
“We have had an unfinished European journey since 2006. We could have been champions before Bursaspor between 2005 and 2008. You are a chance for this city. Let’s finish the unfinished story with this club and its fans,” one fan wrote.
“Nobody expected this much when you arrived,” another penned. “You made the impossible possible. You cannot find the respect and love you have gained here anywhere else. This story does not need to end yet. Stay, let’s continue together. You have been a hope for all of us since the first day you arrived. You made the whole city dream of Europe. Don’t let this story end like this.”
Another suggested the 48-year-old should turn down the Championship Tigers and remain the Super Lig: “This city, this team and the fans are ready to achieve greater victories under your leadership. Stay in Kayseri, not in Hull City, your future is here. Please stay with us.”
“Very few people have ever seen such unity in this medium. Even though Kayserispor fans cannot prevent the coach from leaving, they are obliged to show their love and respect for him. If we have even the slightest hope, let’s run after him.” urged another.
“There is much more we can achieve together. Stay with us coach Sergej Jakirovic, in your beloved city, with your fans who love you so much, continue to share a much more successful future with us. Your success story in Kayserispor is not over yet!”
Another fan, Mustafa Kemal Aktaş, believes a lot more could have been done by the club’s board of directors to keep Jakirovic at the club, and resist City’s overtures.
“I need to make a short criticism of our management,” he said. “The vision of the people who manage my Super League club should be clear and broad. A lot could have been done to keep Jakirovic. Although it is difficult, we should keep the criticisms short for now.
“Good luck to him (Jakirovic). Kayserispor will, of course, bring the most suitable and right coach for him. He will achieve much higher successes with the Kayserispor community. As long as the city integrates with the team and unites in unity and solidarity. Our heads will always be held high, with my respect.”