Trabzonspor's coaching search narrows to Pioli and Şenol Güneş

Trabzonspor has endured a turbulent start to the Süper Lig campaign, failing to secure the results it wanted in the opening five rounds. The club parted ways with head coach Fatih Tekke after the third matchday and handed the reins to Hüseyin Çimşir. Under Çimşir, the side began with a comfortable win over Gençlerbirliği, but a subsequent loss to Konyaspor left the club searching for a longer-term solution.

Following the defeat to Konyaspor, Trabzonspor's management decided to quickly resolve the uncertainty surrounding the coaching position. The club is hoping to unveil its new manager ahead of the derby against Galatasaray on September 19. Talks have reportedly progressed through a broad shortlist, with two names now standing out: Italian coach Stefano Pioli and veteran Turkish manager Şenol Güneş.

According to reports, 60-year-old Pioli, who won the Serie A title with Milan and boasts extensive top-level European experience, currently sits at the top of the list. Trabzonspor's board is said to have already met with Pioli and his agent, with the negotiations reportedly making significant headway. Should that route fail to produce a deal, the club is expected to turn to Şenol Güneş, a figure well acquainted with the club's internal workings.

Other reports, however, suggest Trabzonspor is close to reaching an agreement with Şenol Güneş. According to these accounts, club officials are set to meet with the experienced coach again in the coming days. Should a deal be finalized, the 74-year-old Güneş would take charge for the Galatasaray derby. Having previously managed Trabzonspor on four separate occasions and won two Turkish Cups and two Super Cups with the club, this would mark his fifth spell in charge.