Ataman addresses rumored Galatasaray comeback: ''If I return, it won't be as a coach' / News - Basketnews.com

Ergin Ataman made a short statement about his alleged discussions with Galatasaray and clarified that he isn't interested in the head coaching position.

Credit: AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic - Scanpix Credit AP Photo/Darko Vojinovic - Scanpix

Sheyl Batum, one of Galatasaray's presidential candidates, recently claimed thatErgin Atamanwas contacted through Unal (Aysal) Bey, the former president of Galatasaray between 2011 and 2014. Ataman was the head coach of Galatasaray at the time.

3-pointers this season

38%10,3Points made:10,3Accuracy:37,7%Place in standings:3Record max:14Record min:6Most made 3FGs:Klemen PrepelicTeamBCLStatisticsSchedule

If Batum wins, Aysal is slated to become the head of the Galatasaray Sportif A.S.

"Ataman is the coach of the national team and Panathinaikos. If we won the elections, he was to become the coach of Galatasaray," Batum told the media.

Following the Turkish executive's statement about Aysal and Ataman meeting, the coach of Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens argued that he has no intention of returning to Galatasaray as a coach and that he wanted to serve as president one day.

''There was no meeting between me and my esteemed elder and president, Unal Aysal, regarding Galatasaray coaching," Ataman told SOZCU Spor.

"I wish to serve successfully for many years in our national team and Panathinaikos, where I am currently the head coach. If I return to Galatasaray one day, I will return as president, not as a coach."

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