José Mourinho’s time at Fenerbahçe has come to an abrupt end after the club confirmed his dismissal just two games into the new Süper Lig season.
The Turkish giants released a brief statement on Friday morning announcing the manager’s departure, thanking him for his efforts and wishing him well for the future. The decision follows a disappointing start in domestic competition and an early Champions League exit at the hands of Benfica.
Mourinho, who only took charge this summer, had publicly expressed confidence that Fenerbahçe could still make an impact in the Europa League. However, behind the scenes, tensions were growing. Reports in Türkiye suggest that remarks he made about the club’s board and transfer policy, combined with a strained relationship with senior figures, contributed to the shock dismissal.
A Rocky Spell in Istanbul
Mourinho’s brief stay in Istanbul was never short of headlines. His arrival was marked with a grand presentation at Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium, but results and controversies soon overshadowed the excitement.
Last season, Galatasaray dominated domestically, winning the league and cup double while Fenerbahçe extended their wait for a league title to 11 years. That put Mourinho under immediate pressure to deliver silverware.
But the start of the 2024/25 campaign brought frustration. A draw in the opening Süper Lig fixture against Göztepe left Fener trailing their rivals, and the Champions League play-off defeat to Benfica proved decisive.
According to Turkish football analyst Lara Karacan, the dismissal was about more than just results:
“After failing to win the title last season, Mourinho was already under pressure. Dropped points early in the new campaign and the Champions League exit played a role, but his open criticism of the board and transfer dealings also created unrest. The club saw no way forward.”
What Next for Mourinho?
For the 61-year-old, this marks another dramatic chapter in a career filled with both triumph and controversy. The Portuguese coach remains one of football’s most decorated managers, with Champions League titles at Porto and Inter Milan among his most famous achievements.
Whether another major club will turn to the “Special One” remains to be seen, but his reputation as one of the game’s most compelling figures ensures his next move will be watched closely across Europe.
