Fenerbahce manager José Mourinho once again found himself making headlines during a Europa League match, but this time it wasn’t due to a strategic masterclass. Instead, the spotlight fell on his explosive reaction that led to a red card in a high-stakes game against Manchester United.
The match started with both teams locked in a fierce, competitive battle. However, things took a chaotic turn after a contentious refereeing decision by Clement Turpin in the second half. The drama began when Fenerbahce winger Bright Osayi-Samuel, a standout player since his days with Blackpool and QPR, fell inside the penalty box after a tackle by Manchester United’s midfielder Manuel Ugarte. Fenerbahce’s players and coaching staff instantly appealed for a penalty, only for Turpin to dismiss their claims, ruling that there was no foul.
Mourinho’s temper flared at the referee’s decision, and he made his displeasure known from the sidelines, addressing his frustrations loudly to the fourth official, Jeremy Stinat. As his protests intensified, Turpin’s attention shifted to Mourinho, who by now was visibly angered, challenging the referee’s decision vocally.
Turpin then made the call to send Mourinho off with a red card, citing the manager for using inappropriate language. This decision forced Mourinho off the sidelines and into the stands to observe the remainder of the match. With the score balanced at 1-1, Mourinho’s departure from the touchline occurred at a pivotal point in the game. Manchester United had initially taken the lead with a goal from Christian Eriksen, but Fenerbahce responded after halftime, with Youssef En-Nesyri equalizing through a powerful header.
Mourinho’s ejection added further tension to an already heated match. His longstanding connection with Manchester United – where he previously lifted the Europa League and League Cup trophies – only intensified the atmosphere. Before the match, Mourinho had downplayed any lingering ties to his former club, emphasizing that his sole focus was on Fenerbahce’s progression and challenging a team of United’s caliber. “I think there is no connection with the past,” he remarked, underscoring that this encounter was about helping Fenerbahce close the gap with Europe’s elite clubs.
Despite his respect for United, Mourinho had stressed that his current squad should not be underestimated. He commended Fenerbahce’s fighting spirit and vowed to make them competitive at the highest level. However, this determination soon gave way to his trademark intensity, which took center stage. Even after his exit from the sidelines, Mourinho’s animated display of emotions remained a key talking point, overshadowing much of the on-field action.
This Europa League showdown will likely be remembered as much for Mourinho’s dismissal as for the game itself. His red card was the defining incident, illustrating once more how Mourinho’s presence can shape the narrative, whether on the touchline or from afar.