09.09.2025 14:22
Fenerbahçe President Ali Koç explained to the British press why the paths with Jose Mourinho diverged. Koç's words resonated widely in England. Emphasizing that bringing the successful coach to Istanbul was a significant achievement in itself, Koç stated, "It was a painful separation. Our chemistry matched, and the successes are evident. It was difficult to part ways with someone I considered a friend."
The Super Lig giant Fenerbahçe's era with Jose Mourinho ended in great disappointment. The explanation from the president of the yellow-navy team, Ali Koç, about why they parted ways with the Portuguese coach made a significant impact.
"A BITTER SEPARATION"
In his statement, Ali Koç said, "A bitter separation. Our chemistry was compatible, and the successes are evident. Bringing him here was a great achievement. It was difficult to part ways with someone I consider a friend. We knew he played a defensively oriented style when we brought him in, but by the end of the season, we discussed that we needed to play more aggressively.
Scoring 99 goals and collecting 99 points is in our DNA. Being eliminated by Benfica is not the problem, but the manner of our elimination is unacceptable. This made me feel that last year's style of football would continue. At the point we reached, we parted ways because we believed this squad could play better football. This style of play works in Europe, but in Turkey, we need to dominate most matches." he stated.
IT BECAME A TOPIC OF DISCUSSION
In a news article in Metro, Ali Koç's statements regarding Mourinho were highlighted on the front page, with Koç's expression "A bitter separation" being emphasized.
In a report by The Sun, it was stated, "Fenerbahçe President Ali Koç explained why he had to ruthlessly dismiss Jose Mourinho."
Mirror reported Ali Koç's statements using the expression, "Fenerbahçe sacked Jose Mourinho after a year. The club president said that their understanding of defensive football forced them to change the coach."