Jose Mourinho has expressed his disappointment after Fenerbahce’s exit from the Champions League following a 3-2 aggregate defeat to Lille.

The Portuguese manager admitted that failing to qualify for the group stage represents a significant financial loss for the club.

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“We lose economically because the Champions League obviously is an important boost to the club and we lose the chance to play against the biggest teams in the world,” he said.

“But we would never win the Champions League. We would never reach the Champions League final. Never.”

While acknowledging the challenge of competing with Europe’s elite, Mourinho insisted that the Europa League remains a viable competition for his side.

“But we go to Europa League and in Europa League if… if… I don’t want to say the rest . I prefer to stay on the ifs. But if we can do a great Europa League. If, if, if. But we can do a great Europa League with if. I can’t speak more than the if. If not, I am in trouble,” he added.

The former Chelsea and Manchester United boss was critical of the new Champions League format, questioning the rationale behind the changes.

He emphasized the importance of adapting to the new system while expressing his desire to instill ambition in his players for the upcoming Europa League campaign.

“I don’t even know the reason why the Europa League is going to be this way. Same as Champions. I don’t know the reason why. We have to adapt, it’s something new for everybody.”

He continued: “You play eight matches, four at home, four away. Against some opponents you only play at home, against some opponents, you only play away. It’s strange, but it is what it is. I think money makes decisions and we have to, to adapt to it.

Mourinho’s candid assessment of the situation highlights the pressure he is under to deliver success at Fenerbahce. With the Turkish side now competing in the Europa League, the focus will shift to domestic competition and potential progress in the cup competitions.