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Why Mourinho leaves pitch early: Prepping tactics for Fenerbahce

Head coach Jose Mourinho of Fenerbahce congratulates Kerem Akturkoglu of Benfica during the UEFA Champions League play-off round match between Fenerbahce and Benfica, at Chobani Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye, August 20, 2025. (AA Photo)
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Head coach Jose Mourinho of Fenerbahce congratulates Kerem Akturkoglu of Benfica during the UEFA Champions League play-off round match between Fenerbahce and Benfica, at Chobani Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye, August 20, 2025. (AA Photo)
August 22, 2025 10:29 AM GMT+03:00

Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho has twice left the pitch for the locker room before halftime in recent matches, a move that puzzled supporters and sparked debate.

Mourinho first walked off early in an away game against Goztepe. Days later, he repeated the action during the UEFA Champions League playoff against Benfica in Kadikoy. Both times, he left before the referee ended the first half.

Fenerbahce head coach Jose Mourinho attends a press conference ahead of the UEFA Champions League playoff first leg match against Portugals Benfica team at the Chobani Stadium in Istanbul, Turkiye on August 19, 2025. (AA Photo)
Fenerbahce head coach Jose Mourinho attends a press conference ahead of the UEFA Champions League playoff first leg match against Portugals Benfica team at the Chobani Stadium in Istanbul, Turkiye on August 19, 2025. (AA Photo)

Reason revealed

Local reports said the Portuguese manager exits early to prepare video analysis for his squad. Mourinho uses the extra minutes to set up tactical clips and finalize instructions for the second half.

By entering the dressing room ahead of his players, Mourinho ensures that his plans are ready and fully presented once the team arrives.

Head Coach Jose Mourinho of Fenerbahce speaks during the press conference following the Turkish Super Lig week 36 football match between Fenerbahce and Ikas Eyupspor at Ulker Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye, May 18, 2025. (AA Photo)
Head Coach Jose Mourinho of Fenerbahce speaks during the press conference following the Turkish Super Lig week 36 football match between Fenerbahce and Ikas Eyupspor at Ulker Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye, May 18, 2025. (AA Photo)

A method rooted in detail

Known throughout his career for his attention to detail, Mourinho is showing an unusual leadership style at Fenerbahce with this move. While his early exit may appear surprising at first glance, the reasoning highlights his desire for control and disciplined preparation during matches.

August 22, 2025 10:29 AM GMT+03:00
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