Galatasaray has accused Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho of making “racist remarks” following a 0-0 draw between the two fierce Istanbul rivals.
The specific comments in question were not immediately clear, and Mourinho, who has previously managed Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham, has yet to respond publicly to the accusation.
After the match on Monday, the Portuguese coach was reported to have said that the home bench had been “jumping like monkeys.” He also reportedly reiterated his criticism of Turkish referees.
The match was officiated by Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic, who was reportedly appointed after both clubs requested a foreign official to manage the high-profile fixture.
In its statement, Galatasaray announced its intention to pursue legal action against the 62-year-old Mourinho.
“Since his arrival in Turkey, Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has consistently made disparaging remarks about the Turkish people,” the club said. “Today, his rhetoric has escalated from merely immoral comments to overtly inhumane language.”
“We are officially declaring our intent to pursue criminal proceedings regarding the racist remarks made by Mourinho and will file formal complaints with both UEFA and FIFA. Additionally, we will closely monitor the response of Fenerbahce — a club that claims to uphold ‘exemplary moral values’ — to the reprehensible conduct of their manager.”
Fenerbahce, currently second in the Super Lig, six points behind Galatasaray, has not yet commented.
