In a statement released on Monday, March 9, the Lebanese club announced that Firat experienced a fatal heart attack at Istanbul Airport. He was en route to Adana, having departed from Beirut just hours earlier.
“To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return. With great sadness and sorrow, Star Athletic Club mourns first team coach Captain Engin Firat, who passed away following a sudden heart attack,” the club stated.
His death come weeks after he took the helm at Nejmeh SC in February of this year; the club is notably home to Kenyan international players Austin Odhiambo, Anthony Akumu, and Masoud Juma, all of whom had previously worked with Firat during his tenure with the Kenyan national team.
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Nejmeh SC paid tribute to the coach’s brief but impactful time with the team, highlighting his professionalism and character.
“The management of the club, the technical and administrative staff, the players, and the audience of Al-Najma Club extend their deepest condolences to his generous family and loved ones.”
