Renowned football manager José Mourinho has launched a scathing attack on UEFA, accusing European football’s governing body of not giving him “honest treatment” in the wake of several heated disputes during Europa League matches. The current Fenerbahçe boss believes he has been unfairly targeted by officials ever since his Roma side suffered a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat to Sevilla in the 2023 Europa League final.
Speaking candidly in a recent interview, the former Chelsea and Manchester United manager pulled no punches in his assessment of the situation. “The feeling is, I am in trouble in Europe,” Mourinho lamented. “I lost a final in a way that I still don’t accept, and since then I feel it.”
Mourinho Demands Fair Treatment
The Portuguese tactician was quick to clarify that he is not seeking preferential treatment from UEFA, but rather a level playing field. “I don’t want to have special treatment, I want to have honest treatment. Just that. So if I do something wrong punish and pay, but if I do nothing wrong leave me in peace, but it’s getting difficult,” he explained.
Mourinho’s frustrations came to a head during Fenerbahçe’s recent 1-1 draw with Manchester United in the Europa League, where he was shown a straight red card following a heated dispute with the referee over a denied penalty appeal. The incident has only fueled his belief that he is being singled out by officials.
Equal Treatment for All
The two-time Champions League winner argued that regardless of a manager’s stature or experience, the rules should be applied consistently across the board. “I deserve to be [treated] like everybody else,” Mourinho insisted. “On the pitch it doesn’t matter if you are Lionel Messi or playing your first match. The rules are the same for Messi and the young kid. And for coaches it’s the same thing.”
It doesn’t matter if you are Carlo Ancelotti or a young coach just starting. Ancelotti has to behave the same way as the young kid has to behave. That’s what I want for myself, and that’s what I am not getting.
José Mourinho, Fenerbahçe Manager
Mourinho’s Premier League Hint
In the aftermath of the United clash, Mourinho hinted that his next job could be at an English club not involved in UEFA competitions, sparking speculation about a potential Premier League return. However, he was quick to clarify that his comments were made in jest.
“I made a joke,” he explained. “I’m never going to a team fighting relegation. I will never go. I get upset, and I’m not in the period of my career to get upset.”
Despite his current frustrations, Mourinho has not ruled out a future return to England’s top flight, where he enjoyed successful spells with Chelsea and Manchester United. “London is home, so one day I have to be back, unless no one wants me. But one day I would like to go back,” he admitted.
Committed to Fenerbahçe
For now, though, Mourinho remains fully committed to his project at Fenerbahçe, where he aims to build a competitive side capable of challenging for honors both domestically and in Europe. “But don’t get me wrong, and let’s make it very very clear, for the next two years, this season and next, no one will take me from Fenerbahçe,” he declared emphatically.
As the charismatic manager continues to navigate the choppy waters of European football, it remains to be seen whether his relationship with UEFA will improve or if further clashes with officials lie ahead. One thing is certain: José Mourinho will not back down from a fight, and his unyielding spirit will continue to make headlines both on and off the pitch.
