Jose Mourinho’s presence on the Fenerbahce touchline for their crucial Europa League Round of 16 tie against Rangers is in jeopardy, as he faces a potential UEFA ban following accusations of racism during the Istanbul derby against Galatasaray.
The former Premier League and La Liga manager has sparked outrage after claiming the Galatasaray bench were “jumping around like monkeys,” leading the club to demand UEFA take swift action. Galatasaray’s director of sport, Abdullah Kavukcu, has formally reported Mourinho to European football’s governing body, accusing him of “officially committed racism.”
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This controversy comes at a critical juncture for Fenerbahce, who are set to face Rangers in a two-legged clash, with the first leg taking place at Ibrox next week. The outcome of this tie will determine which team progresses to the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
Mourinho is already facing disciplinary action from the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) for his conduct. Now, UEFA is under pressure to intervene, with the power to impose a ten-match ban under Article 14.1 of their disciplinary regulations.
“We have reported him to UEFA. We will do everything necessary regarding Jose Mourinho,” Kavukcu stated. “He has officially committed racism. They and the Turkish FA must make a stand against his clear case of racism. Both of them have to punish him.”
The “Special One” now faces an anxious wait to discover if he will be permitted to lead his team from the sidelines at Ibrox. The potential absence of Mourinho would be a significant blow for Fenerbahce as they prepare for the vital encounter with Rangers. The outcome of UEFA’s investigation will be closely watched by fans of both clubs and football observers across Europe.
