Jose Mourinho responds to Mauro Icardi: ‘He’s such a huge ‘GOAT’ I prefer to stay silent’

Jose Mourinho, Fenerbahce’s manager, addressed a recent social media post by Galatasaray’s star Mauro Icardi ahead of their UEFA Europa League clash with Anderlecht.

When asked about Icardi’s comments, Mourinho stated, “He’s such a huge ‘GOAT’ that I prefer not to comment on him, just stay silent and accept it.”

He also responded to a question about whether he would show he’s the “Special One” in the derby.

I have already shown I am ‘special’ with the 26 trophies I’ve won in my 25-year career. My career is not defined by one match.

Jose Mourinho, Fenerbahce’s manager

Fenerbahce’s preparation for Anderlecht

Fenerbahce is set to face Belgian side Anderlecht in the first leg of their Round of 16 playoff in the UEFA Europa League. The match will take place at Ulker Stadium and will kick off at 20:45. Montenegrin referee Nikola Dabanovic will officiate the game.

Mourinho expressed that he doesn’t see an advantage in playing the first leg at home or away, stating, “Since the away goals rule has changed, I see it like this: we are essentially playing a single 180-minute match. The important thing is to be able to progress after the second leg.”

Mourinho addresses injury concerns

When asked about injuries in the squad, Mourinho noted, “If you compare this year to last season, we’re in a different situation. There’s a drastic decrease in injuries, with a 50% difference from last season. The reason people notice these injuries is that they’re mostly to defensive players. If the injuries were to other positions, it wouldn’t stand out as much.”

He also mentioned that there’s no single factor to blame for the injuries, emphasizing that, “Injuries happen in football, and players are running more, working harder, and have less time to recover. There are many factors involved, such as cold weather, the pitch, fatigue, and accumulated tiredness.”