Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has admitted he is "not happy" with his team's performance after ending the season without silverware, finishing second in the Turkish Super Lig, 11 points behind fierce rivals Galatasaray.
Speaking after Fenerbahce's final match of the season—a 2-1 victory against Konyaspor on Saturday—the Portuguese tactician reflected on what he described as a disappointing campaign marked by "strange things" in the title race.
"We finished second in the league, that wasn't our goal," Mourinho told reporters. "We actually had a good season until we lost the title. It was difficult to get the team back on track. Strange things happened in the league and also against Rangers. I can't describe it."
The former Chelsea and Manchester United manager's first season in Turkey has been turbulent both on and off the pitch. Fenerbahce were eliminated from the Europa League in the last-16 round by Scottish side Rangers, further dampening their hopes for silverware.
Off-Field Controversies
Mourinho's tenure has been marred by several controversies, including a ban for grabbing the nose of Galatasaray coach Okan Buruk during a heated encounter. He subsequently took legal action against the Istanbul rivals after being accused of racism.
The 'Special One' also found himself in a public feud with Fenerbahce player Allan Saint-Maximin and has been vocal in his criticism of Turkish football and its referees.
"Overall, it was a disappointing season. When a new coach arrives, people get hope. If we compare this to the phase when there was no chance of winning the championship, people lose motivation, the stadium is empty and there are reactions," Mourinho explained.
Despite the underwhelming results, Mourinho defended his players: "I don't blame my players, they are human and professional. They are the first to feel sad about the bad results. I am not happy."
The disappointing campaign raises questions about Mourinho's future at the club, though no official statements have been made regarding his position for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, Galatasaray have secured back-to-back Super Lig titles, further cementing their dominance in Turkish football and intensifying the rivalry with Fenerbahce.
