21.08.2025 01:01
Fenerbahçe's head coach Jose Mourinho made a statement after the Benfica match. In response to the question, "Has Kerem's transfer been canceled?" Mourinho said, "Benfica thought about the sporting aspect, not the economic aspect. Benfica could have sold the player for significant amounts, but they prioritized the current sporting situation. The coach wanted the player to play, and I believe we will see him on the field in the return match."
Fenerbahçe's head coach Jose Mourinho made statements after the 0-0 draw against Benfica. Mourinho also answered the question, 'Did Kerem's transfer get canceled?' as he played in the starting eleven today.
'BENFICA PLACED IMPORTANCE ON SPORTING SITUATION'
Responding to the question, 'Did Kerem's transfer get canceled?' Mourinho said, "I think Benfica thought about the sporting aspect, not the economic one. Benfica could have sold the player for significant amounts, but they prioritized the current sporting situation. The coach wanted the player to play, and I believe we will see him playing in the return match as well. They had no doubts economically. They played the player to qualify for the group stage. For me, it was not a big surprise that Kerem played."
'THE TIE IS STILL OPEN'
Commenting on the tie, Jose Mourinho stated, "The tie is still open. I cannot say that the tie is over. I cannot say who the favorite is; the tie is balanced right now."
'THEY MANAGED THE GAME WELL'
Continuing his remarks, the Portuguese coach said, "After the red card, we needed to add speed and dynamism in the final stages of the game, but we couldn't do that. It was a high-level match, even if not in terms of viewing. They managed the game well after going down to 10 men with many unseen fouls and the referee calling numerous fouls."
'ONE TEAM WANTED A DRAW'
Mourinho concluded his statements by saying, "It was a tough match for both teams. One team wanted a draw and got what they wanted. One team wanted to win and did not get what they wanted."