Who is Acun Ilicali? Hull City owner who sacked Liam Rosenior and paid for fans' holidays
Acun Ilicali, the owner of Hull City, recently sacked manager Liam Rosenior and has plans to enhance the club's performance as he aims for a Premier League return.
Acun Ilicali, a Turkish media mogul, owns Hull City and has made headlines following the unexpected sacking of manager Liam Rosenior after a season in which the team performed well, finishing 7th in their league. This decision has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike, particularly as Ilicali has expressed ambitions for the clubβs resurgence and improvement in financial standings. He initially acquired Hull City for approximately Β£30 million from the Allam family, who had a controversial eleven-year stewardship of the club.
Ilicali's media empire, ACUNMEDYA, has its roots in producing popular television formats such as 'The Voice' and 'Survivor' in Turkey. His successful background in the entertainment industry is designed to help in recasting Hull City not only as a competitive football team but also as a thriving community hub that resonates with fans. His recent acts, including paying for fans' holidays, reflect a strategy aimed at winning the loyalty and support of the fan base, potentially as a means to foster a sense of community and connection with the club.
The swift managerial change marks a pivotal moment for Hull City, as they navigate their identity and aspirations in the competitive landscape of English football. Rosenior's upcoming match against Hull with his new team, Chelsea, in the FA Cup adds a narrative layer to his departure and showcases the volatility and unpredictability often found in football management. Ilicali's ownership appears positioned to be transformative, yet the success of his tenure will ultimately depend on the club's performance on the pitch and the reactions of the dedicated fans.