Fenerbahce president Ali Koc has finally lifted the lid on Jose Mourinho’s shock dismissal, describing it as a “bitter parting” but insisting the legendary coach’s defensive tactics had become unacceptable for the Turkish giants.
Mourinho was officially sacked on August 29, 2025, just over a year after taking charge, despite winning 37 of his 62 games in Istanbul.
The decision came in the aftermath of a Champions League play-off defeat to Benfica, who edged through with a narrow 1-0 aggregate victory.
While Mourinho’s record was far from disastrous, Koc explained that the style of football was the major issue.
“Why did we let go of Mourinho? It was a bitter parting,” Koc told Hurriyet. “Our chemistry was perfect, and his accomplishments are evident. Just bringing him here was a great achievement. But being eliminated by Benfica wasn’t the problem but the way we were eliminated was unacceptable. This made me feel like last year’s football would continue.”
The Fenerbahce chief underlined the club’s philosophy of attacking dominance, pointing to their DNA of “99 goals and 99 points,” and stressed that Mourinho’s pragmatic approach didn’t align with expectations in Turkish football.
“This kind of football works in Europe,” Koc continued. “But in Turkey, we have to crush opponents in most matches. We were constantly struggling to come back after falling behind.”
Who Will Replace Mourinho?
Koc revealed that former Italy coach Luciano Spalletti was the club’s first choice, though the 65-year-old has decided not to return to management this season.
Instead, Fenerbahce are targeting another foreign manager with European experience, with an announcement expected soon.
What’s Next for Mourinho?
Mourinho’s departure adds another chapter to his turbulent recent years, following mixed spells at Manchester United, Tottenham, and Roma. Reports suggest he could make a dramatic return to the Premier League, with Nottingham Forest and West Ham monitoring the situation. Scottish giants Rangers have also been linked with the 62-year-old tactician.
For now, Mourinho’s next step remains uncertain but what’s clear is that Fenerbahce’s demand for attacking dominance has left no room for his trademark defensive style.
