Jose Mourinho's Turbulent Reign at Fenerbahçe: A Chronicle of Controversies and Drama

The Special One Brings His Signature Drama to Istanbul

José Mourinho's appointment as Fenerbahçe manager has injected unprecedented drama into the Turkish Süper Lig, with the Portuguese tactician living up to his reputation as football's most polarizing figure.

The Buruk Nose-Grab Incident (April 2025)

The latest controversy erupted after Fenerbahçe's tense 2-1 Turkish Cup defeat to arch-rivals Galatasaray:

• Mourinho allegedly grabbed and twisted Okan Buruk's nose during post-match altercations
• Four red cards shown in injury time before the bizarre touchline incident
• Galatasaray filed an official complaint for "physical assault"
• Social media war ensued with mocking cartoons and viral hashtags

Season Highlights of Mourinho's Mischief

August 2024: Booked within 20 minutes of his Süper Lig debut for arguing with officials

September 2024:

• Suffered first Istanbul derby defeat (3-1 to Galatasaray)
• Mocked as "The Crying One" in Gala's social media taunt
• Protested offside call by displaying laptop replay to broadcast cameras

October 2024: Red card against former club Manchester United in Europa League clash

November 2024:

• 1-match ban for claiming officials were "conspiring against Fenerbahçe"
• Viral knee-slide celebration after last-gasp winner vs Trabzonspor

February 2025:

• Successfully petitioned for foreign referee in derby match
• 4-game ban for controversial comments about Turkish officials
• Accused Galatasaray players of "acting like monkeys" (later denied)
• Counter-sued Galatasaray for defamation

March 2025: Pretended to sleep during press conference after Europa League defeat

Impact on Turkish Football

Mourinho's arrival has:

• Increased international attention on the Süper Lig
• Exacerbated tensions in already-volatile Istanbul derbies
• Sparked debates about officiating standards
• Generated record social media engagement for Turkish clubs

The Portuguese manager maintains his unique approach, recently stating: "They wanted Mourinho? They got Mourinho - with all that comes with it."

With several months remaining in the season, fans await what dramatic chapters Mourinho will add to his Turkish adventure.