Is coach Mourinho leaving Fenerbahce? Tensions grow after Athletic Bilbao defeat

Fenerbahce endured a frustrating night in the UEFA Europa League after falling to Athletic Bilbao 2-0 in Istanbul.

The match saw Athletic’s Inaki Williams score twice, securing the Spanish side’s position at the top of the group.

Meanwhile, Fenerbahce’s performance drew heavy criticism, especially from fans and the media, as head coach Jose Mourinho became the focal point of blame.

Coach Mourinho criticized for tactical choices, Fenerbahce player selection

Fenerbahce struggled throughout the match, recording just one shot on target and achieving a 0.04 expected goal (xG) rating, their lowest offensive output under Mourinho.

The coach defended the team’s approach, stating, “We dominated the first half and created chances,” but statistics painted a different picture.

Pundits and fans alike dismissed his claims, with many arguing that Fenerbahce lacked both creativity and an effective game plan.

Sportswriter Guntekin Onay voiced his concerns directly about coach Mourinho’s player selections.

Why does coach Mourinho insist so much on Samet, En-Nesyri, and Szymanski? It’s hard to understand. These players do not possess the qualities required to excel in high-level competitions.

Onay said

Fans echoed similar sentiments, criticizing midfielder Amrabat for resorting to long balls due to a lack of options in the middle.

Fenerbahce fans direct anger at coach Mourinho, club president

The frustration of Fenerbahce’s supporters reached its peak during and after the match.

Chants calling for club president Ali Koc to resign filled the stadium, accompanied by protests targeting both coach Mourinho and other key figures. Some fans shouted, “Acun relegated,” mocking Hull City owner Acun Ilicali, who was present at the match.

Security measures were tested as fans threw objects and directed verbal abuse at the DJ booth in the stadium. Outside, disgruntled supporters organized a protest march, demanding immediate changes in leadership.

The tension reflects a growing dissatisfaction after what many see as seven years of unfulfilled promises under the current administration.

Spanish media reactions to Athletic Bilbao’s victory, Fenerbahce’s struggles

The Spanish press offered their own take on Athletic Bilbao’s performance and Fenerbahce’s shortcomings. Marca commented that Fenerbahce “hit a wall” and struggled to respond effectively.

Spanish daily El Pais credited Inaki Williams for his decisive performance, stating, “Williams dismantled Mourinho’s Fenerbahce and carried Athletic to the top.” Meanwhile, another Spanish daily Mundo Deportivo mocked coach Mourinho, writing, “The title of ‘Special One’ now belongs to Ernesto Valverde, not Jose Mourinho.”

The media emphasized the growing gap between Athletic Bilbao’s strong organization and Fenerbahce’s chaotic gameplay. Mourinho, whose reputation once intimidated opponents, now faces skepticism from commentators across Europe.

Is coach Mourinho leaving Fenerbahce to return to Premier League?

Amid the mounting pressure, reports have surfaced suggesting Mourinho could leave Fenerbahce for Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Wolverhampton is prepared to pay the over $6 million release clause in coach Mourinho’s contract. The struggling English club, sitting in the relegation zone, views Mourinho as a potential savior.

However, Mourinho remains publicly committed to Fenerbahce. After the loss to Athletic Bilbao, he told his players, “Rest and recover. I believe in all of you. Together, we will rise again.” Despite his assurance, rumors persist that the Premier League offer might tempt him to leave Türkiye.

Fenerbahce prepares for crucial matches while planning transfer changes

Looking ahead, Fenerbahce faces critical matches in both the UEFA Europa League and the Turkish Super Lig.

• The team must defeat Lyon in their next Europa League match to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive
• Domestically, they aim to bounce back in a key fixture against Basaksehir

At the same time, Fenerbahce is making plans to strengthen its squad during the January transfer window.

• Defender Becao is reportedly on the verge of departure after Mourinho expressed dissatisfaction with his playing style

“I prefer defenders who can build play effectively,” Mourinho said, signaling his intent to replace Becao with a more technically adept center-back.

Fenerbahce‘s defeat against Athletic Bilbao has exposed deeper issues within the club. Fan protests, tactical criticisms, and speculation about Mourinho’s future have created a volatile atmosphere. With expectations high and results underwhelming, the next few weeks will be pivotal for Fenerbahce.