Mourinho opens up the problem of selection of Turkish TV professionals

Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho has called on “experts” in the Turkish media to help solve his team’s left-back problem.

The Turkish side are struggling with left-back Jayden Oosterwolde out through injury and Mert Muldur out after being sent off in their 2-0 home defeat by Athletic Club on Wednesday.

Fenerbahce, who are competing for the domestic and European title, have had a mixed Europa League campaign with two wins and two losses in six games.

They are also looking to claim their first Super Lig title since 2014, although a recent 1-0 defeat by Besiktas saw them run on a five-game winning streak and leave them six points behind league leaders Galatasaray.

Mourinho has not stopped expressing his frustration at the problems caused by injuries and suspensions.

He said: “If you look at our next game (Europa League) against Olympique Lyon, Muldur will be suspended, who will play at left back?

FT | Fenerbahçe 0-2 Athletic Club pic.twitter.com/DTew0WBq4i

– Fenerbahce English (@Fenerbahce_EN) December 11, 2024

“If one of you can help me, if one of the TV experts can help me. Who will play at left back?

“Sometimes you (the media) look at things without knowing the facts of those things.

“I don’t know because unfortunately I can only speak a few Turkish words, if as a team we will give you the right information to understand what is going on.

“I would like to be with all my players. You see how difficult it is for us. We had no midfielders on the bench (against Athletic).

When asked if the upcoming window could bring reinforcements, Mourinho dismissed any suggestion of dissatisfaction with his current squad.

“I am happy with my players. I don’t throw my players under the bus. “Don’t expect me to come here and tell you that I want to have good players,” he said.

However, Mourinho acknowledged the impact of Oosterwolde’s absence, saying, “I want Jayden Oosterwolde to be available because for us it is very difficult (without him).

“But don’t worry, we will qualify (for the Europa League). We have two games left to get three points, and we will get them. We will be strong in the second half of the season.”