Fenerbahce GM Gherardini: 'I've always admired Djordjevic' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: Fotodiena.lt/R.Dačkus Credit Fotodiena.lt/R.Dačkus

The general manager of Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul, Maurizio Gherardini, spoke at a press conference and discussed the team's offseason, coaching, and roster changes.

Former EuroLeague Executive of the Year award winner spoke about Igor Kokoskov's departure and the difficulties of finding a new coach quickly.

"The biggest problem for us was that Kokoskov's resignation was late," Gherardini said. "If such a thing had happened at the end of June, we would have sat down, talked, and looked for a solution. But the fact that it was in the third week of July was a very serious problem for us. And when you look at the past, it was not a question for a coach to leave in such a period."

"It was also very difficult to find a new coach at such a time. We tried to evaluate that process in the best way possible. Of course, we were unhappy, but we understood him, listened to him, and respected him. We needed to find a new solution as soon as possible."

Gherardini also talked about Fenerbahce's criteria for a new head coach and presented the reasons Sasha Djordjevic was hired.

"As we said before, it was a very difficult time. But despite that, we had a few options. The most important for us was the coach's knowledge, education, coaching career, personality, and coaching style. I’ve known Djordjevic for nearly 30 years, and he’s always been someone I admired but never had the opportunity to work with. We’ve looked at everything and listened to the reviews. Djordjevic also worked with some of our current players, which was an advantage. There were other good options as well.”

The GM also discussed the potential departure of long-time Fenerbahce player Ali Muhammed and other possible roster moves.

"If we do not continue with Ali Muhammed, of course, a farewell ceremony will be held for him. He is an athlete who is very important to us and whom we love and respect. He has given us so much, and we want to give him everything we can. Apart from that, as you know, the driver of this team was supposed to be someone else, but now we have another driver. That's why some things are on the agenda, some changes, new additions maybe. We are still working on it."

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