Ex-Maidstone United manager Hakan Hayrettin, who led the club to the National League South title in 2022, is ready to get back to work

Former Maidstone United manager Hakan Hayrettin says it’s time to get back to work.

Hayrettin, who led United to the National League South title four years ago, has been out of football since leaving Dulwich Hamlet in January 2025.

He’s turned down jobs during his break from the game, including the chance to work abroad, but the 57-year-old is ready to return to the dugout.

“What we achieved at Maidstone was amazing, wasn’t it?” said Hayrettin.

“The club’s got a very special place in my heart and when we won the league it was the best feeling ever.

“I want to have that success again with another club.

“It wasn’t the first trophy I’ve lifted and it won’t be the last if I’m given the opportunity. Let’s see. I’ve had a few discussions and I’ve just got to see what’s right for me.

“I’m starting to miss it - I’ve had enough of going on holiday.

“I’m getting that buzz back and I want to do it again.

“I miss the interaction in the dressing room, the camaraderie and most of all I miss the challenge of turning a club into something. That’s what we do it for. You’re never going to get everything right but I am missing it now.

“I’m eager to get back. I’ve looked at some jobs, I’ve been offered jobs here and abroad but I don’t want to go abroad, not yet, because this is my motherland.

“There are so many people out of work but I think with the experience and knowledge I’ve got and the way I do things, I’m more than capable of turning things around for any team.”

Hayrettin joined Maidstone as head coach under John Still, his great friend and mentor, in 2019.

The former Wycombe and Barnet midfielder took over as manager after Still left the Gallagher just over a year later and delivered the National League South title in 2022.

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