Fenerbahçe’s head coach, Jose Mourinho, expressed his awareness of the tough challenge facing his team in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round against Dutch club Feyenoord. During a press conference at De Kuip Stadium, he reflected on the recent passing of Jorge Costa, a legendary captain of Porto, underscoring the personal connection he had with the late player.
Mourinho, visibly affected by Costa’s death, noted how significant leaders are within a team, stating, “It’s not about wearing a captain’s armband; Jorge was truly a leader.” He acknowledged that while he needed to focus on the upcoming game, he would carry the memories of Costa with him.
Having faced Feyenoord many times throughout his career, Mourinho revealed that this would not be his first encounter with the Dutch club, recalling his first visit to De Kuip Stadium for a final match between Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain back in 1997. He has also coached teams like Chelsea and Roma at this iconic venue.
Commenting on Feyenoord’s youth and talent, Mourinho pointed out their ability to successfully replace sold players with new talent, indicating respect for the club’s management and strategy. He recognized the significance of the match, referring to it as a beautiful challenge and highlighted that it would be a tough encounter against a good team.
When asked about his favorite player from Feyenoord, Mourinho chose not to specify, emphasizing that revealing such details might influence player motivation negatively. He stated, “We will play a difficult match against a strong team,” showcasing his respect for their capabilities.
Mourinho estimated the chances between the two sides as evenly matched. He mentioned that while they are not favorites, neither are Feyenoord significantly ahead of them. Furthermore, he praised Robin van Persie as a great forward and acknowledged the rising role of former players transitioning into coaching positions.
Regarding squad readiness, Mourinho confirmed that aside from Mert Hakan Yandaş, all players brought to Rotterdam are fit to compete, including experienced newcomers Milan Skriniar and Nelson. Lastly, he reflected on his second season at Fenerbahçe, stating he aims for continuous improvement and is better prepared for the challenges that lie ahead compared to last year, highlighting this familiarity as a distinct advantage.
Overall, Mourinho’s strategic insights and acknowledgment of the emotional aspects tied to the game reveal the depth of his commitment to both his players and the emotional context of football. This adds a human touch to the competitive spirit, potentially bringing fans together in support.