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Ill health forces Denizli to quit

Mustafa Denizli has been forced to step down as Beşiktaş JK coach because of health reasons, saying that he must rest "without big challenges, stress and major excitement."

Ill health forces Denizli to quit
Ill health forces Denizli to quit ©UEFA.com

Mustafa Denizli has stepped down as Beşiktaş JK coach because of health reasons, leaving the Istanbul club just a year after leading them to a league and cup double in his first season in charge.

Denizli underwent medical tests at the start of the week and has now decided he must relinquish his post after taking the club to a fourth-placed Super League finish, thus ensuring them of a place in next term's UEFA Europa League qualifying rounds.

"I don't know how long this break will take," said the 60-year-old, who oversaw Beşiktaş's exit from the UEFA Champions League group stage. "In order for me to return to good health, I need a certain period without big challenges, stress and major excitements. I would like to thank the Beşiktaş board for their understanding and support."

Club president Yıldırım Demirören added: "Unfortunately, we are forced to part company with a coach who ended Beşiktaş's double drought because of health reasons. After resting for some time, Mustafa Denizli can return to our club in whichever position he likes." Demirören also confirmed the search for Denizli's successor will begin immediately.