Acun Ilicali completes ‘dream’ takeover as Hull beat Blackburn on big day
The Turkish businessman and TV personality Acun Ilicali completed his takeover of Hull and then watched on as the Championship club beat highflying Blackburn 2-0.
The 52-year-old, who went on to the MKM Stadium pitch before the match, received approval from the English Football League at a meeting on Wednesday to become the new owner.
Ilicali has spent the last six months working on a deal for his Acun Medya group to buy the club, reaching an agreement with the Allam family as far back as October.
With the deal now complete, it brings to an end the Allam family’s 11-years as owners. “I am happy that I have fulfilled one of my biggest dreams today,” said Ilicali. “We are starting a beautiful journey with Hull City. We have many big dreams and goals to achieve together with our fans.
“I would like to thank Allam family for the friendship and sincerity they have shown during this process. I genuinely believe that we will achieve success with the amazing fans of this beautiful city.”
The outgoing vice-chairman Ehab Allam insisted Hull would be left in safe hands. “We are happy and proud to be leaving Hull City on a strong and stable financial footing,” said Allam. “During our tenure, we have worked hard to create a sustainable model and successful academy set-up, giving the club the foundations it needs for the future.”
The new era began in style as Hull, who had lost their last three league games, were excellent from the outset against Blackburn, turning the formbook on its head against genuine promotion contenders.
George Honeyman opened the scoring for the hosts just eight minutes in after good work from Andy Longman, while Tom Eaves added a second with a good header after 67 minutes.
Despite the win, manager Grant McCann remains in the dark about his future under the new owner. “All we can do is to try and focus the boys,” he said. “Hopefully these things [speculation about his future] will be answered in the next few days.
“I’ve enjoyed my time here and if it’s longer I’ll be delighted. If it’s not, that’s business. I’ve not met him [Ilicali] as yet. I’m sure that will happen within the next couple of days. I do think the players do need a bit of help. It’s been tough but this group of players have got a real mentality and a real character. This is a massive football club. We are looking forward to seeing what’s next.”