Jose Mourinho, Fenerbahce gear up for UEFA match against Lille

Fenerbahce prepares to face Lille in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round tomorrow in France.

Head Coach Jose Mourinho and midfielder Mert Hakan Yandas addressed the media at their hotel in Lille, discussing their preparations and expectations for the match.

Mourinho acknowledged the difficulty of the upcoming match. “We know it will be a tough game. We hope to win tomorrow. Lille is a strong team with good players. We’ve watched all their preseason matches against teams like Celta, Wolfsburg, and Belgian clubs.”

Despite the challenge, Mourinho expressed confidence in his team’s readiness. “We’ve trained well since our game against Lugano. Our team is in good shape, except for Fred, who is injured.”

The Portuguese manager emphasized the importance of motivation and preparation. “This is the first time I’ve started a season during a European Championship period, which complicates things as players join the team at different times. However, we are motivated and ready for tomorrow’s game. My focus is always on the next match.”

Regarding transfer rumors, Mourinho commented, “I don’t understand Turkish media, so I stay out of the rumors. I’m happy with my current players and expect them to give their best. If a new player joins before the transfer window closes, that’s a bonus, but I’m not desperate.”

Mourinho also reflected on the club’s goals. “The club has never pressured me to qualify for the Champions League. It would be prestigious for the club, Türkiye football, and the players. If you ask if we can win the Champions League, I’d say it’s possible but unlikely. However, we can win the Europa League. If given a choice, I’d prefer to play in the Champions League.”

Midfielder Mert Hakan Yandas echoed Mourinho’s sentiments about the upcoming match. “We know we are up against a strong team that has played together for years. We have prepared well and aim to return to Istanbul with a positive result,” he said.

Yandas also highlighted the healthy competition within the team. “At Fenerbahce, it’s normal to have new players every season. Our job is to increase competition and push the team forward. This is my fifth season here, and I always strive to represent the club well, whether I play for five minutes or ninety.”

He praised Mourinho’s communication skills and the overall team spirit. “Our coach has excellent relationships with everyone, which is a big advantage. Last season, our team’s unity was our strength, and the happiness at Samandira Training Facility reflected positively on the entire Fenerbahce community.”

Fenerbahce aims to secure a favorable result in Lille to boost their chances of advancing to the Champions League group stage. The club recognizes the importance of this match for its ambitions this season.

The match will take place at Hainaut Stadium and will begin at 21:30 TSI (Standard Turkish Time). Romanian referee Istvan Kovacs will officiate, with assistance from his compatriots Mihai Marica and George Florin Neacsu.