Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho has addressed the accusations of racism for the first time since being accused by rivals Galatasaray. Following last week’s 0-0 draw in the Istanbul derby, Mourinho made controversial remarks about Galatasaray’s bench, claiming they were “jumping like monkeys” while appealing for referee decisions. He also suggested that a Turkish referee should not have officiated the match.
After Galatasaray accused him of racism, Mourinho faced a four-match touchline ban and a £35,000 fine, which was later reduced to two matches and a £12,200 fine after an appeal.
Mourinho, however, denied the accusations and emphasized that his comments were not racist. He pointed out that Galatasaray’s response to the incident backfired, as he received support from former players like Didier Drogba, Mikel Obi, and Michael Essien.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Mourinho said: “They weren’t clever in the way they attacked me because they didn’t know my past. They didn’t know my connections with Africa, African people, players, and charities. Instead of attacking me, I think it boomeranged and went against them.”
He continued, “Everyone knows who I am. Everyone knows my flaws, but racism is not one of them. The most important thing is I know who I am, and accusing me of racism was a bad choice.”
Mourinho also criticized Galatasaray for stooping “so low,” adding, “I cannot drop to his level,” referring to Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk’s behavior on the sidelines. He reflected, “Sometimes I ask myself, ‘Why did you drop to that level?’ It was just sad.”
The former Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham coach expressed gratitude to those who supported him, including people who may not be fond of him, especially his former players. “I thank those who spoke out, especially my boys, my former players. They were a very important voice,” he said.