Fenerbahçe SK have commenced their training camp for the upcoming UEFA Champions League fixture against AS Roma on Thursday, September 10, 2026. The Yellow-Navy Blues took to the pitch at the Fenerbahçe Can Bartu Facilities on Sunday, September 6, at 16:47.
Head coach Ismail Kartal oversaw a session that began with warm-up routines. Players then engaged in speed exercises and focused passing drills. The training concluded with individual work. Those who started and played over 60 minutes in the previous day's Beşiktaş derby undertook regeneration work instead. The club plans to continue preparations with another training session the following day. This information was reported by Hürriyet Spor.
The team enters this European preparation phase on a positive domestic run. Sitting 4th in the Süper Lig, Fenerbahçe have 6 points from 4 games. With two wins and two losses, their recent form across the last five matches shows three wins and two draws, remaining unbeaten. This form, visible on our standings page, keeps them within 4 points of leaders Galatasaray.
What does the training schedule involve?
Ismail Kartal is managing a critical preparation period ahead of the Roma clash. The team is following a two-phase program to recover from derby fatigue and adapt to European tempo. The first session focused on fundamental physical work and ball control. The speed exercises conducted under Kartal's instructions aim to minimize defensive errors against the Serie A side's rapid attacking play.
The passing drills are important for establishing midfield control. The team, which has scored 8 and conceded 6 goals this season (+2 GD), needs to build organized attacks. The offensive efficiency displayed in the last league match, a 4-2 win over Konyaspor, is being reinforced through these sessions. The team's full season performance data is available on our stats page.
Which players had a different workload?
The training program was differentiated for players who had heavy minutes in the derby. These players performed light, regeneration-focused exercises instead of high-intensity team drills. This cardio and stretching-oriented work was designed to reduce injury risk and accelerate recovery. All other players completed the standard training regimen.
The technical staff will have the chance to assess the entire squad over this two-day preparation period. The probable starting eleven and substitutes for the Roma match will become clearer after these sessions. The senior squad list can be found on our squad page.
What comes next in the process?
Fenerbahçe will hold another training session on Monday, September 7. This will be the team's final on-site preparation before the Roma match. Afterwards, the team will continue its program with travel and final preparations. The Champions League excitement also signifies a break in the league schedule.
The next Süper Lig fixture is away against 7th-placed Rizespor on October 11, 2026. The team's complete official match schedule can be viewed on the fixtures page. Ismail Kartal's squad is already putting in the hard work required for European success.
