Didier Drogba defended José Mourinho against racism allegations from Galatasaray after the Fenerbahce coach's controversial post-match comments. Galatasaray announced legal action, but Drogba insisted Mourinho is not racist. Fenerbahce also defended their manager, stating his remarks were taken out of context.
Former Chelsea star Didier Drogba has come to the defense of his former coach, José Mourinho after the Portuguese manager faced racism accusations from Turkish club Galatasaray. The controversy erupted following Mourinho’s comments during a heated derby between Fenerbahce and Galatasaray on February 24.
During a post-match press conference, Mourinho claimed that Galatasaray's bench was pressuring the referee to penalize Fenerbahce’s young defender, Yusuf Akcicek. In his remarks, he stated, “Everyone on the other bench was jumping like monkeys,” sparking outrage. In response, Galatasaray announced plans to pursue legal action against the Fenerbahce manager, accusing him of making a racist statement.
However, Drogba, who played under Mourinho at Chelsea and had a brief stint with Galatasaray, publicly defended his former coach. Taking to social media, the Ivorian football legend wrote, “I’ve seen the recent comments about José Mourinho. Trust me when I say I have known him for years, and he is not a racist. History—both past and recent—proves it. Let’s focus on supporting our team and winning the league.” Referring to Mourinho as his “Dad,” Drogba’s statement emphasized his belief in Mourinho’s character and dismissed the racism allegations.
Fenerbahce also backed Mourinho, claiming his words had been taken out of context. In an official statement, the club argued that Mourinho’s remarks were intended to describe Galatasaray’s excessive protests during the match, rather than as a racial slur.
As the controversy continues to divide football fans and analysts, Mourinho remains at the center of yet another storm in his eventful managerial career.
