Newsletters
Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho made controversial remarks on Turkish football history after his team’s 4-2 loss to Hatayspor in the Turkish Super Lig.
Speaking to reporters after the match at Mersin Stadium, Mourinho was asked whether the heavy defeat and years of absence from the Champions League had damaged his connection with the club.
In response, the Portuguese coach said: "In the last seven years, I have reached more European finals than Turkish football has in its history."
He reminded the media that, beyond his famous Champions League title with Porto two decades ago, he has played in two European finals in just the past few years.
Mourinho also defended Fenerbahce’s unsuccessful attempt to qualify for the Champions League group stage last summer, citing the late arrival of players due to the Euros and the general difficulty Turkish clubs face in early transfers.
"Last summer, we fought to reach the Champions League but lost in the final moments, with a penalty in the 120th minute," he said.
"Of course I prefer the Champions League over the Europa or Conference League, and we will try again this summer. We need to be fully prepared for the qualification rounds."
Despite growing pressure following Fenerbahce’s trophyless season, Mourinho said internal matters would not be discussed publicly. He noted that club president Ali Koc had recently expressed support for him to stay and that he had received no information to suggest otherwise.
Commenting on the emotional state of the squad, Mourinho added: "People think we don't suffer after defeats. That is not true. The players are human; they lose confidence and motivation after losing the title."
He ended by saying he did not regret his key decisions this season, with one exception:
"If you ask me if there is one player I regret not using more, it would be Cenk Tosun."
1 min read
3 min read
