Tensions flared after the final whistle at Sukru Saracoglu Stadium when Fenerbahce head coach Jose Mourinho was accused of physically confronting Galatasaray boss Okan Buruk. The altercation took place as both managers were speaking with the match officials in the center of the pitch.
Mourinho approached Buruk from behind and appeared to pinch his nose, causing the Galatasaray manager to drop to the ground, holding his face. The incident sparked strong reactions from Galatasaray’s leadership.
Vice-president Metin Ozturk strongly criticized Mourinho’s behavior, stating, “Our coach Okan and Mourinho congratulated the referees. After that, as Okan was walking away, Mourinho first verbally and then physically attacked him. Where else in the world would he be able to do this? What does he think of Turkey?”
Ozturk called for disciplinary action, adding, “I trust that Fenerbahce’s management will take appropriate measures before the federation steps in.”
Despite the heated accusations, Buruk downplayed the incident in his post-match press conference.
“There was no major issue between me and Mourinho,” Buruk explained. “He pinched my nose from behind, leaving a small scratch. It wasn’t a pleasant or respectful act, but I won’t make a big deal out of it. We expect better conduct from managers in moments like these.”
The Turkish Cup quarterfinal saw Galatasaray emerge victorious with a 2-1 win, thanks to a brace from Victor Osimhen.
This is not the first time tensions have surfaced between the two clubs regarding Mourinho’s behavior. During a Super Lig match in February, Galatasaray accused Mourinho of making offensive remarks, announcing their intention to pursue legal action against him. The Turkish Football Federation later imposed a four-game suspension and a financial penalty of £35,194 on the Portuguese coach for multiple disciplinary violations.
In response, Mourinho took legal action against Galatasaray, citing an attack on his personal rights. Meanwhile, the recent match also saw red cards issued to Fenerbahce’s Mert Yandas and Galatasaray’s Kerem Demirbay and Baris Yilmaz following a sideline altercation in stoppage time.
