Zeynep Mestan has made headlines after being appointed head coach of Turgutluspor, a men’s football team in Turkey’s Manisa Süper Amatör Ligi, at just 22.

Mestan’s appointment marks a significant milestone in her coaching career as she takes charge of a team aiming to return to professional football within the next three years.

The young coach has already begun preparations with the squad, completing her third pre-season training session as she works to build the team ahead of the new campaign.

Speaking after the session, Mestan expressed satisfaction with the attitude of her players, particularly the respect they have shown her despite her age and gender.

“They work with me just as they would with a male coach. None of them looks down on me,” she said.

Mestan’s appointment brings attention to the growing presence of women in football coaching, a field traditionally dominated by men, particularly in the management of men’s teams.