Jose Mourinho has always been an interesting character, someone worth analysing not only for his football philosophy but also for how his approach might inspire us to improve our own skills and character. His philosophy is unorthodox, often unconventional, and in many ways the opposite of Fenerbahce’s identity.
From the very beginning, there was a visible conflict between his methods and the expectations of the club. This naturally raises a question. Why did the board decide to sign him when the previous manager had been performing quite well?
The headline ‘Mourinho sacked by Fenerbahce’ became one of the most shocking stories of the summer, especially given the optimism that surrounded his arrival.
Full Effort, Unfair Ending
Regardless of these conflicts, there is no denying Mourinho’s effort and dedication. From my perspective, he gave his full commitment to this club. That is why his dismissal feels premature and unfair.
It is especially ridiculous that it came right after the Champions League qualifiers. Eliminating Benfica at that stage would have been close to a miracle for any team, not just for Fenerbahce. Sometimes, fans and boards forget that Mourinho is human, not some footballing god who can bend reality to his will.
Obvious Reasons for Frustration
There are obvious reasons for his clashes with the fans. Jose Mourinho has never built his teams on dominant possession football. His style has always been about setting traps, defending with discipline, pressing at the right moments and punishing mistakes.
He did not care if the score was 1-0 or 3-0. Winning was what mattered.
Yet for Fenerbahce supporters, the dream has always been to see their team dominate, overwhelm opponents, and play with an intensity that strikes fear across the league. It is the ultimate fantasy for the fans, and Mourinho was never going to deliver that.
Controversial Choices and Costly Mistakes
Some of his methods and comments also stirred controversy. I personally found many of his remarks iconic, though I have to admit he underestimated the importance of certain games, especially the derbies.
His interview before the Galatasaray match gave unnecessary motivation to the opposition and harmed his own team’s focus. That defeat, followed by another, was avoidable. Sometimes all you need to do is focus on the game, nothing more.
His approach to substitutions was another weak spot. Even as a fan watching from the outside, it was obvious when players were exhausted and the team was in desperate need of fresh legs.
Instead of making the changes earlier to protect a narrow lead, he often waited until the seventy-fifth minute to act. By then, it was usually too late. Opponents had already seized control, and the goal would inevitably come.
That stubbornness cost Fenerbahce crucial points.
Mourinho Sacked by Fenerbahce: Hidden Reasons Behind the Departure
Beyond these visible issues, there were also hidden reasons behind his departure. Turkish media reported serious disagreements between Mourinho and president Ali Koc. The disputes centred on tactics, squad planning, and missing transfers.
Mourinho even went public with his frustrations before the second leg against Benfica. He argued that Fenerbahce’s approach to the Champions League was careless and short-sighted.
Transfers he requested were either delayed or sabotaged by trivial details. As a result, he faced Benfica with a squad he believed was not ready for that stage. His criticism of the board effectively sealed his exit.
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A Turbulent Legacy
In the end, Mourinho’s time at Fenerbahce may be remembered as turbulent, but he left with his reputation intact.
Sometimes, before judging someone, we need to look in the mirror and acknowledge the environment that shaped their decisions. What lies ahead for Fenerbahce feels uncertain.
Without a coherent plan and with a mindset that seems resistant to change, darker days may be on the horizon.
Goodbye and Good Luck
Still, I want to personally thank Jose Mourinho. He brought his character, his history, and his full dedication into a toxic environment. I wish him luck in his next adventure and will follow his career with interest.
As for Fenerbahce, the cycle continues. The same mistakes repeat with no solutions in sight. A new coach will arrive before the Europa League begins, and the same questions will echo once again.
Fenerbahce is an abyss. To look straight at it is to feel its gaze in return.
Goodbye, Jose.
What Comes Next
In my next entry, I will write the long-requested retrospective on Tsubasa.
Stay tuned!
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Ball Raw Images
Recording Date: 27.08.2025