Mourinho Delivers Cold Response After Learning Fenerbahce’s Next Champions League Fixture

 

Jose Mourinho

Jose Mourinho was well and truly in his element after coasting his side to the next round in the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League (UCL) qualification series. The Portuguese tactician, who was recently appointed as manager of Fenerbahçe, has experienced a stellar start to his reign. Fenerbahce coach, Jose Mourinho, during the UEFA Champions League second qualifying round second-leg match against Lugano at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium on July 30, 2024. According to data courtesy of Fotmob, the 61-year-old appears to have well adapted to his new surroundings in Istanbul and has so far recorded a 100 per cent win ratio since taking over at the helm. However, Mourinho is not in the spotlight due to the Istanbul surroundings and the fanfare he has received since joining the club. The former Real Madrid manager, who led his team to victory over Swiss side FC Lugano in the UCL fixture, was informed of his next opponent during his post-match conference. The 61-year-old responded with characteristic indifference to the news. Mourinho drops cold response As captured by Sportbible, the Fenerbahçe manager was informed in the aftermath of his side’s win that their next opponent would be French outfit Lille. Reacting to the news, Mourinho remarked: "Lille had an unlucky draw. They will be facing us." He added, "I understand that Turkish teams often struggle against strong European sides. Turkish teams should have a fair chance in the draw. However, it wasn’t a favorable draw for Lille, as Fenerbahçe will be a tough challenge for them." Mourinho continued, "Tomorrow, after a few hours of sunbathing by the pool, I’ll begin preparing for Lille with my wonderful team."  Fenerbahçe are set to travel to the Decathlon Arena for the first leg of the tie on Tuesday, August 6, before hosting Lille at the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium a week later. Subscribe to watch new videos The winner will advance to the two-legged play-off round, where a spot in the expanded Champions League group stage will be at stake. 

by  Ero Samson