After taking charge of Fenerbahce last summer, Jose Mourinho has failed to impress five months into the 2024/2025 season. The Istanbul club currently sit second in the league behind city-rivals Galatasaray, who are five points ahead with 11 games gone down in the campaign.
The Portuguese head coach has made strong criticisms on Turkish Football recently, going so far as to questioning the credibility of the local league. Mourinho’s comments came after Fenerbahce’s 3-2 victory over Trabzonspor in the Super League, as he voiced his disapproval with the officiating, particularly VAR official Atilla Karaoglan. “I am angry with those who brought me here. They told me only half of the story. If I had known the full extent, I would not have come to Fenerbahce,” Mourinho said post-match.
Mourinho also expanded on his views in a separate interview, as he stated: “There are things that need to change in the Turkish league. Turkey is much bigger than the Turkish league. It’s not just soccer, it’s the Turkish league. The history of the Turkish national team, but also the players who play for the national team.”
His remarks were not welcomed by Galatasaray goalkeeper Fernando Muslera. Having spent over a decade at Istanbul, the Uruguayan was disappointed with the attacks against the league and its referees. Following Galatasaray’s 3-2 victory over Samsunspor on Sunday, Muslera responded to the Portuguese’s comments. “The insults he has directed towards Turkish football and his attacks on certain referees are things that are quite upsetting,” admitted.
“This is the first time in 14 years that I feel compelled to make a statement like this. I have never disrespected anyone and have always been demanding of my work and my character. The respect I have earned here is the only thing I intend to maintain,” he remarked. “I have won 17 trophies in 14 years. Considering my contributions, my goal has always been for Turkish football to grow. If Mourinho, who arrived just four months ago, criticises Turkish football and doesn’t appreciate it, he can leave. Yet nobody says anything. I believe it is time for someone to say something. We need to pay more attention to those who are advancing Turkish football,” he concluded.
