In a significant development in Turkish football, Fenerbahce has announced the end of its association with Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho. The decision, described as mutual, follows a disappointing early exit from the Champions League and a spell of inconsistent performances domestically and in Europe.
Mourinho, 62, was appointed in July 2024 with high hopes of ending Fenerbahce’s league title drought and elevating their standing in European competitions. His arrival was met with great enthusiasm; thousands of fans welcomed him to Istanbul, hopeful he could restore their club to continental prominence.
After approximately one season and 62 matches in charge, Mourinho departs with a record of 37 wins, 14 draws and 11 losses—an overall win rate hovering around 60 per cent.
However, Fenerbahce’s campaign failed to reach its lofty goals. Last season, they finished second in the Super Lig—some 11 points behind arch rival Galatasaray. Their European adventures were equally underwhelming: they were knocked out of the Europa League in the round of 16, suffered a quarterfinal exit in the Turkish Cup, and were eliminated from Champions League qualification after losing 1–0 on aggregate to Benfica.
Mourinho’s tenure was also marked by controversy. He faced disciplinary action for unsportsmanlike conduct, including a notable incident where he grabbed the nose of Galatasaray’s coach Okan Buruk during a heated derby, earning a multi-match ban. His public criticism of officiating and accusations of league bias further intensified clashes with Turkish football authorities.
Fenerbahce’s official statement conveyed appreciation for Mourinho’s efforts, expressing gratitude and wishing him success in his future endeavors. The club has not yet announced a successor, leaving uncertainties about their direction as they prepare for a Europa League season.
This exit comes amid a broader managerial upheaval in Turkish football—Fenerbahce’s city rivals Besiktas also dismissed former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer following their own European setback.
As the dust settles, attention now shifts both to the search for Mourinho’s replacement and what this means for a club with renewed ambitions but a sudden leadership void.
