Exclusive Interview with Former TFF President Mustafa Kemal Ulusu

Exclusive Interview with Former TFF President Mustafa Kemal Ulusu

Former Turkish Football Federation (TFF) President Mustafa Kemal Ulusu shared his insights in an exclusive interview with Sports Declaration. Ulusu offered his perspectives on various topics, from Turkey’s position in international football to global trends, FIFA and UEFA relations, and financial issues in the football world.

1. How do you see Turkey’s position in international football competition? What strategies could the current TFF administration implement to further advance Turkish football on the international stage?

Mustafa Kemal Ulusu: Unfortunately, Turkish football is not at the desired level in international competition. We sometimes get by with a few good results here and there, but with the current TFF law and the structure of the TFF general assembly, I believe things will only get worse.

2. How were your relationships with FIFA and UEFA managed, and what opportunities did these relationships present for Turkish football?

Ulusu: Our relationships with FIFA and UEFA have been conducted quietly and very ineffectively. As long as these TFF presidents remain in place, I am confident that this will continue in the same manner.

3. How do you evaluate global football trends? What steps should Turkish football take to align itself with these trends?

Ulusu: While world football, particularly in countries like England and Spain, has gained significant momentum, Turkish football remains stagnant due to an odd TFF law and the structure of the TFF general assembly. Unfortunately, our teams consistently fail in various European Cup matches.

4. How do global football issues, such as financial inequality or governance problems, affect Turkish football? What solutions would you propose to tackle these issues?

Ulusu: Finance is not my area of expertise, but if you ask for my opinion, I would say this: Even as someone who has spent so many years in football, I rarely watch Süper Lig matches. As for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd leagues and amateur levels? Never! Why? Because they are so lacking in quality. The bottom line is that Turkish football is in dire need of major reform. But with this outdated law, this general assembly structure, and especially this sports ministry and government, expecting reform in Turkish football is a dream! In fact, much darker days await Turkish football.

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The views expressed in this interview are those of Mustafa Kemal Ulusu and offer critical insights into the future of Turkish football.