CurrentReport Blog Former Galatasaray striker Didier Drogba has publicly defended Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho after his old club accused the Portuguese coach of making racist remarks.
Galatasaray’s Allegations Against Mourinho
The controversy erupted following Fenerbahce’s 0-0 draw with Galatasaray on Monday. According to Galatasaray, Mourinho allegedly referred to their bench as “jumping like monkeys,” prompting the club to announce plans to initiate criminal proceedings against him.
In a statement, Galatasaray claimed that Mourinho’s comments were “derogatory statements directed towards the Turkish people.” The club’s strong stance has sparked widespread reactions in Turkish and international football.
Didier Drogba Comes to Mourinho’s Defense
Drogba, who played under Mourinho at Chelsea and later represented Galatasaray, took to social media to defend the Fenerbahce boss. Writing on X (formerly Twitter), the Ivorian legend rejected the racism accusations and described Mourinho as his “dad.”
Drogba’s Statement on Mourinho
“Dear @GalatasaraySK, You know how proud I was to wear the yellow and red jersey and my love for the most decorated club in Turkey!!” Drogba wrote.
“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.
“Let’s focus on our games, support our brilliant lions, and let’s win the league to get closer to our 5th star.
“How can my ‘Dad’ be a racist… Come on, guys.”
Reactions to Drogba’s Defense of Mourinho
Drogba’s statement has divided opinions, with some fans supporting his defense of Mourinho while others believe the allegations should be taken seriously. Mourinho himself has yet to make a public statement regarding the claims.
The Turkish Football Federation and UEFA may be called upon to investigate the matter further. Meanwhile, Galatasaray continues its push for legal action, while Fenerbahce remains focused on their title race.
As the controversy unfolds, Mourinho’s legacy as one of football’s most decorated managers is now entangled in a heated Turkish rivalry. Whether legal proceedings will move forward remains to be seen, but Didier Drogba has made his stance clear—he does not believe Mourinho is a racist.
