Galatasaray has accused Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho of making “racist statements” following a goalless derby draw between the two Istanbul clubs. However, the club did not specify which comments they were referring to, and Mourinho has not yet responded publicly to the allegations.
Mourinho, who has previously managed Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham, reportedly reiterated his criticism of Turkish referees after the match. The high-profile game was officiated by Slovenia’s Slavko Vincic, following a request from both clubs for a foreign referee.
In an official statement, Galatasaray announced its intention to take legal action against Mourinho, alleging that he has repeatedly made derogatory remarks about Turkish people since arriving in the country.
The statement read: “Since the commencement of his managerial duties in Turkey, Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has persistently issued derogatory statements directed towards the Turkish people. Today his discourse has escalated beyond merely immoral comments into unequivocally inhumane rhetoric.”
Galatasaray confirmed plans to initiate criminal proceedings and file complaints with UEFA and FIFA. The club also called on Fenerbahce to take a stance on Mourinho’s alleged remarks.
There has been no immediate response from Fenerbahce, who currently sit second in the Turkish Super Lig, trailing Galatasaray by six points.
