Jose Mourinho, also called “The Special One,” has been urged to step back from Turkish football as he sets his sights on a potential return to the Premier League.
Currently guiding Fenerbahce, Jose Mourinho has become noticeably unsettled by what he sees as problematic administering inside the Turkish League. He has even indicated conceivable bias toward rival clubs like Galatasaray, suggesting corruption within the system.
After a dramatic victory over Trabzonspor, in which two penalties were awarded to the opposition, Mourinho voiced his disappointments.
That’s what he commented assuming he’d known“the whole truth” about Turkish football, he might never have taken up the role. “We’re not just competing against teams; we’re fighting the entire system,” he said.
Jose Mourinho didn’t mince words, adding that Turkish football “has an unpleasant stench.” He claimed his son, based in London, is “the only person there watching Turkish football.”
These blunt statements earned Mourinho a substantial fine and a one-game suspension. Fernando Muslera, the Galatasaray captain, didn’t hesitate to voice his disapproval, asserting that Mourinho’s presence might be more harmful than beneficial for Turkish football.
“The comments attacking Turkish football and criticizing referees are troubling to me,” Muslera shared with Turkiye Today. “After 14 years and 17 trophies here, I felt compelled to speak out. My goal has always been to elevate Turkish football.”
Muslera further remarked that “If Mourinho, who came here four months ago, criticises Turkish football and doesn’t like it, he can leave. Although nobody says anything, I think now someone can say something to him. We need to pay a little more attention to those who move Turkish football forward.”
In the mean time, Mourinho seems open to the possibility of leaving Turkish football, expressing a desire to return to England. He mentioned his interest in taking charge of a struggling team but clarified he wouldn’t pursue a relegation-battling club, amidst speculation linking him to teams like Newcastle.
In October, Jose Mourinho said, “The smartest move for me after leaving Fenerbahce would be to join a club that’s not involved in UEFA competitions. A lower-ranked club in England that needs a manager in a couple of years—I’d be ready for that.”
A few days later, he clarified, “I’m not interested in battling relegation; it’s just too intense. Honestly, it’s tougher than competing for titles. It takes an emotional toll because it’s about changing lives.
“When you’re fighting to stay in the Premier League or facing relegation, it impacts lives and alters so many things. The managers who take on that challenge are incredibly brave.”