Didier Drogba has come to the defense of his former Chelsea manager, José Mourinho, amid accusations of racism following Fenerbahçe’s goalless draw with Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lig.
The controversy erupted after Mourinho described the behavior of Galatasaray’s bench as “jumping like monkeys” during Monday’s heated derby. The comment sparked backlash, with Galatasaray strongly condemning it as racist. However, Drogba, who played for Galatasaray during the 2013-14 season and worked closely with Mourinho at Chelsea, dismissed the claims.
Drogba: ‘Mourinho is Like a Father to Me’
Taking to social media platform X, the former Ivory Coast striker expressed his unwavering support for Mourinho:
“You know how proud I was to wear the yellow and red jersey and my love for the most decorated club in Turkey! We all know how passionate and heated rivalries can be, and I’ve been lucky enough to experience it.
“I’ve seen the recent comments about Jose Mourinho. Trust me when I tell you I have known Jose for 25 years, and he is not a racist—history [past and recent] is there to prove it.
“How can my ‘Dad’ be a racist? Come on, guys.”
Mourinho, who took charge of Fenerbahçe in June 2024 after leaving Roma, has yet to respond publicly to Galatasaray’s accusations.
Galatasaray Condemns Mourinho’s Comments
While Mourinho’s supporters argue that his words were taken out of context, Galatasaray remains firm in its stance. Club board member Can Natan issued a statement condemning Mourinho’s repeated criticisms of Turkish football and referees.
“Jose Mourinho’s systematic derogatory comments about the Turkish Super Lig, Turkish referees, and the Turkish nation since his employment in Turkey are increasingly concerning.
“His recent remarks following the derby match, in which he stated that Galatasaray’s bench was ‘jumping like monkeys,’ are not only insulting but also illustrate a troubling pattern that crosses the borders of racist behavior.
“For someone in Mourinho’s position, it is essential to promote respect rather than resort to disparaging comments that foster division. Such behavior is unacceptable and demands serious reflection.”
Fenerbahçe, on the other hand, defended their manager, claiming his words were taken “completely out of context.”
Mourinho’s Troubled Time in Turkey
Mourinho’s stint in Turkey has been turbulent. He has been vocal about what he perceives as poor officiating in the league, even stating in November that he wouldn’t have taken the Fenerbahçe job had he known the refereeing standards. That remark earned him a one-match ban and a £15,000 fine.
Before Monday’s derby, both clubs requested a foreign referee, leading to Slovenian official Slavko Vincic being appointed.
What’s Next for Mourinho?
Sources close to Mourinho say he is angered by the racism allegations and is considering legal action. Those within his camp argue that he has worked closely with many Black players throughout his career and would never engage in racist behavior.
For now, the football world waits to see if Mourinho will directly address the accusations or let his legal team handle the fallout.
What do you think? Were Mourinho’s words misinterpreted, or did he cross the line? Let us know in the comments.
