Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho has addressed the racism allegations against him for the first time since being accused by rivals Galatasaray. The controversy arose after Mourinho criticized Galatasaray’s bench for “jumping like monkeys” during their appeals for refereeing decisions in last week’s 0-0 Istanbul derby draw. He also questioned the use of a Turkish referee for the match.
Following Galatasaray’s complaint, Mourinho was initially handed a four-game touchline ban and a £35,000 fine, which was later reduced to two games and a £12,200 fine on appeal. However, Mourinho has denied any racist intent behind his comments, stating that his remarks were misinterpreted.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Mourinho emphasized his deep connections with Africa, African players, and charities, arguing that the accusations backfired on Galatasaray. He said, “They were not clever in the way they attacked me, because they didn’t know my past. They didn’t know my connections with Africa, with African people and African players and African charities. So instead of going against me, I think it boomeranged and went against them.”
Mourinho expressed disappointment at the allegations, calling them a “bad choice” and questioning how Galatasaray could “go so low.” He also criticized Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk’s touchline behavior, stating, “I cannot drop to his level.”
The former Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham manager thanked those who supported him, including former players like Didier Drogba, Mikel Obi, and Michael Essien. He acknowledged that even people who do not typically support him stood by him during the controversy, saying, “Probably even from people who don’t like me the support was there. I thank the people who didn’t have a problem to speak [out], especially my boys, my former players. They were a very important voice.”
Mourinho reiterated that he knows who he is as a person and that racism is not among his flaws, emphasizing his commitment to inclusivity and respect.
