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Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho is facing the prospect of another touchline suspension after his recent remarks sparked controversy in Turkish football. The Portuguese coach had already seen an initial four-match ban reduced to two following his actions during the heated Istanbul derby. However, fresh disciplinary action is now being considered by the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) over his latest comments.
Mourinho recently spoke with Sky Sports News, where he questioned the impartiality of the disciplinary process after the head of Turkish football’s disciplinary committee was seen on social media wearing a Galatasaray jersey.
“On the day my [four-match] ban was decided, it comes to public eyes that the chief of the disciplinary committee is celebrating among friends with a Galatasaray shirt on,” Mourinho stated. “Only here you can understand the dimension of it.”
The TFF has now moved to penalize Mourinho for what it describes as “statements aimed at damaging the reputation of Turkish football.” Reports indicate that a combination of a ban and a fine is expected, with the final decision on his punishment likely to be announced on Thursday.
The controversy surrounding Mourinho has been further complicated by accusations of racist remarks following the derby. Galatasaray officials took issue with his comments describing their bench’s celebrations as ‘jumping like monkeys.’ The former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss also raised eyebrows when he claimed the match was officiated more fairly because it was not handled by a Turkish referee. Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic was appointed for the game following requests from both clubs for a foreign official.
Mourinho had originally been hit with a four-game suspension, which was later reduced upon appeal, along with his fine being lowered from 1.6 million Turkish lira (£35,000) to 558,000 lira (£12,200). His latest remarks, however, have reignited tensions between him and the Turkish footballing authorities.
In the wake of the allegations, former players who worked under Mourinho have publicly defended him. Ivorian legend Didier Drogba voiced his support, saying, “Trust me when I tell you I have known Jose for 25 years, and he is not a racist. History—both past and recent—is there to prove it.”
Ex-Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien also showed solidarity, sharing a photo of himself with Drogba and Mourinho during their time at Stamford Bridge, accompanied by heart emojis.
Despite the off-field drama, Fenerbahce remains focused on their title chase. They currently sit second in the Turkish Super Lig, seven points behind leaders Galatasaray but with a game in hand. Their next challenge comes against third-placed Samsunspor on Sunday, where Mourinho's presence on the touchline remains uncertain pending the TFF’s final decision.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @josemourinho, Pixabay / jorono
