The Portuguese tactician will not be on the sidelines and Bright Osayi-Samuel will not be available as Fenerbahce fight for a place in the Europa League knockout stages
Fenerbahce will have to navigate a crucial Europa League clash without their head coach, Jose Mourinho, after UEFA imposed a one-match suspension on the Portuguese manager.
The ban, which stems from Mourinho delaying his team’s return to the pitch in a previous fixture against Olympique Lyon, means he will be absent from the sidelines when Fenerbahce face Midtjylland in a high-stakes encounter on Thursday.
Mourinho’s absence a major blow for Fenerbahce
UEFA confirmed Mourinho’s suspension just a day before the match, leaving Fenerbahce to battle for their Europa League survival without their experienced tactician.
Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola when the Portuguese manager was at Manchester United (Credit: Imago)
Portuguese referee Luis Godinho has been appointed to officiate the game, which will take place at the MCH Arena at 11 p.m.
Adding to the club’s woes, several key players will also miss the crucial last group stage match against Midtjylland on Thursday.
Bright Osayi-Samuel in action for Fenerbahce || Imago
Jayden Oosterwolde and Rodrigo Becao remain sidelined due to injuries, while Dominik Livakovic, Mert Muldur, Sofyan Amrabat, and Bright Osayi-Samuel are also unavailable for the tie.
Do-or-die clash as Fenerbahce’s fate hangs in the balance
With their European future hanging in the balance, Fenerbahce must overcome these setbacks to secure progression to the next round.
Jose Mourinho and Fenerbahce failed in Besiktas.
A win against Midtjylland would see Fenerbahce advance with 12 points, but a draw or loss would leave them relying on results elsewhere.
If the match ends in a draw, their qualification will depend on results from teams such as Ajax, PAOK, Real Sociedad, Roma, and Besiktas.
Fenerbahce kicked off the Turkish Cup in style.
A Tottenham victory over Elfsborg could also work in their favour, as Fenerbahce would move ahead of the Swedish club on goal difference.
A defeat would complicate their chances significantly. If they lose by just one goal, they will need Ferencvaros to suffer a heavy defeat against AZ Alkmaar to stay in contention.
Osayi Samuel was sent off for Fenerbahce in the Europa League | Imago
Additionally, favourable outcomes in matches involving Porto, Besiktas, Braga, and Hoffenheim could still see them progress despite a narrow loss.
Comment and Earn N5.... comments are approved manually by admin.. Comment must be long and from the post.. short comments will not be approved