Cihat Arman

Cihat Arman — Biography

Cihat Arman, born on 16 July 1915 in Istanbul, is remembered as one of the most legendary goalkeepers in Turkish football history, later also working as a manager and journalist. Fans nicknamed him the 'Flying Goalkeeper' and the 'Yellow Canary' for the yellow sweater he wore in every match, a nickname that eventually became Fenerbahçe's own club symbol; he remains one of five players named in the club's official anthem.

Arman represented Turkey at the 1936 and 1948 Summer Olympics and captained both Fenerbahçe and the national team for years. As national team manager throughout 1949, he guided Turkey to qualification for the 1950 World Cup, though the team was ultimately unable to compete due to financial difficulties stemming from the aftermath of the Second World War.

After retiring from football, Arman served as an official for both Fenerbahçe and the Turkish Football Federation. He died in Istanbul on 14 May 1994, and is still commemorated by Fenerbahçe supporters on the anniversary of his death.