Jose Mourinho, known for his ability to face great challengesis facing one of his first challenges as Fenerbahce coach. After his galactic presentation, Mourinho promised that the Turkish team’s shirt would become his “new skin”.
Now, with just 72 days in his new position, he faces the need to overcome a 2-1 deficit against Lille to keep alive Fenerbahce’s dream of qualifying for the Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2008-09 season.
The challenge of playing in the Champions League
Fenerbahce, looking to return to the elite of European football, need to overcome Lille in the return leg in Istanbul to advance to the next qualifying round of the Champions League.
Mourinho, aware of the difficulty of the task, commented before the first leg: “The club never told me that participating in the Champions League was a necessity. If someone asks me if we can win the Champions League, I would answer: ‘Everything is possible, but I don’t believe in miracles’.
“On the other hand, I do think it is feasible to win the Europa League. However, if you ask me to choose which one I want to play in, I have no doubts: the Champions League.”
The signings and the expectations generated
Fenerbahce have invested significantly this summer, spending €48m to reinforce their squad with players such as En-Nesyri, Söyüncü, Saint-Maximin, Krunic, Aydin and Tosun.
This investment reflects a clear intention to compete at the highest level, both in Turkey and in Europe. However, Mourinho points out that success in the League is the main priority, as Fenerbahce have not won the championship since 2014.
Mourinho, known for his demanding nature and ability to obtain quick results, is asking for time to implement his vision in the team. After the 2-1 defeat in Lille, he said: “There are many things missing. We have been working for 6-7 weeks and a Champions League match, even if it is a qualifying match, is of a very high level. We conceded two goals due to our mistakes, but I liked the team.”
The passion for Mourinho in Türkiye
Mourinho’s arrival has raised great expectations among Fenerbahçe fans, who see in him a figure capable of leading the team to success. “It’s too early to expect any big changes. Mourinho doesn’t have a magic wand, but Fenerbahçe, with his arrival, has taken a step up in level. The players are impressed to be under his command and that is positively affecting the team. The fans, eager for success, are also calmer. At least for now. They trust and believe in Mou,” explains Cagri Davran, journalist for ‘Fanatik’.
Mourinhomania has taken hold in Istanbul, increasing interest in the team. Fenerbahce’s 1-0 victory over Adana Demirspor in the opening round of the Turkish Super Lig was televised on several international channels, highlighting the team’s growing appeal under Mourinho.
Despite his fame and success at clubs such as Real Madrid, Inter and Chelsea, Mourinho faces significant pressure in Turkey. Turkish football is known for its passion and demanding fans, which adds an extra challenge to Mourinho’s already complicated job.
“Mou has overtaken Fatih Terim as the most pedigreed coach in history but now he must surpass his successes at home. The pressure in Turkey is enormous. If you win, you are king. If you lose, it is difficult, even if your name is Mourinho,” says Davran.
Jose Mourinho, with his indomitable character and experience on the biggest stages of football, is ready to take on the challenge of leading Fenerbahce back to the Champions League. With a strengthened squad and unwavering support from the fans, Mourinho hopes to guide the team to success, starting with the crucial return match against Lille in Istanbul.
The task is arduous, but with “The Special One” at the helm, Fenerbahce is confident that better days are yet to come.