“The Special One” Out! Fenerbahçe Part Ways With Mourinho
The Turkish giants have paid José Mourinho €15 million in compensation after sacking the Portuguese coach.
José “The Special One” Mourinho is once again at the center of football’s spotlight. His departure from Fenerbahçe has sparked fierce debate. Has the legendary manager lost his magic touch, or is this just another twist in a glittering career? Let’s break down what led to the split—and where Mourinho might go next.
Shockwaves in Turkey
The news of Mourinho’s dismissal from Fenerbahçe hit like a thunderbolt, shaking the football community. Fans of the Istanbul club are split. Some mourn the loss of a charismatic genius whose energy electrified the stands, while others blame him for a Champions League failure and a weak start to the new season.
Social media is buzzing with polarized opinions—ranging from calls for him to retire to speculation about a sensational return to the Premier League, especially to Manchester United or Chelsea.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the decision came after Fenerbahçe’s defeat to Benfica in the Champions League playoffs. Club president Ali Koç thanked Mourinho for his work but admitted the team needed “a breath of fresh air.” Turkish media also highlighted that fans were frustrated not only with results but also with a more lackluster style of play.
Champions League Exit – The Final Straw
Fenerbahçe’s elimination by Benfica on August 27 (0–0 at home, 0–1 away) was the decisive blow. The club missed out on crucial group-stage revenues, and Mourinho failed to turn the tide despite his vast experience.
His public attacks on referees, including accusations of bias after a heated derby with Galatasaray, led to a fine of 1.5 million lira and escalated tensions with the Turkish Football Federation. Combined with the Champions League failure, this soured relations with the board, which viewed qualification as both a financial and reputational priority.
Disappointing Domestic and European Results
Domestically, results also fell short. In 2024/25, Fenerbahçe finished second in the Super Lig with 84 points—11 behind rivals Galatasaray. They were eliminated in the Europa League round of 16 by Rangers and knocked out of the Turkish Cup in the quarterfinals.
The new season started with only four points from two matches, further fueling dissatisfaction.
Clashes with vice-president Erol Bilek over transfer policy and accusations that Mourinho “distorted facts” led to the termination of his two-year deal signed in June 2024. The €15 million compensation was a compromise to part ways early. For Mourinho, however, this payout adds to an incredible career total: across seven sackings, he has now pocketed around €115 million in compensation alone.
What’s Next for Mourinho?
Despite this setback, Mourinho remains one of the most in-demand names in football.
Portugal return? A comeback to his homeland is not out of the question. Porto—where he won the 2004 Champions League—or Sporting, now pushing for titles in the Primeira Liga, could benefit from his experience.
Middle East? Saudi Arabian clubs like Al Hilal or Al Nassr are ready to offer astronomical deals, perfectly fitting Mourinho’s star power.
MLS? The United States could be another option. With Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez already boosting the league’s profile, Mourinho could step in as the face of a club like Inter Miami or LA Galaxy.
One option he won’t have for now is Portugal’s national team, as Roberto Martínez is under contract until July 2026.
End of an Era—or a New Chapter?
Mourinho’s departure from Fenerbahçe doesn’t erase his legendary status. His golden days with Porto and Inter may be behind him, but his charisma, reputation, and media magnetism ensure that whatever comes next will dominate headlines worldwide.
Whether he joins a Champions League outsider like Kazakhstan’s Kairat or a financial powerhouse in the Gulf, one thing is certain: football still hasn’t seen the last of “The Special One.”
Published by Patrick Jane
31.08.2025