The departure of José Mourinho from Fenerbahçe shocked the football world. However, club president Ali Koç has now revealed the reasons behind the painful decision to part ways with the Portuguese coach after just one year in charge.

Why did Mourinho leave after only one year?

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In statements reported by Turkish outlet Fanatik, Koç admitted the dismissal was “painful,” not only because of Mourinho’s achievements in his first season but also due to their personal relationship.

“Why did we dismiss Mourinho? I will say it for the first time. It was a painful dismissal. Our chemistry worked, the successes were there. Bringing him here was a great achievement. Parting ways with someone who is first and foremost a friend was tough,” Koç explained.

The Champions League elimination in the qualifying round against Benfica (1-0) was the breaking point. “It’s not a problem to be eliminated by Benfica, but it’s unacceptable to go out in this way. For me, it felt like a continuation of last year’s football. We separated because we believe that, from this point forward, this team must play better,” the president added.

Did domestic numbers also play a role?

Yes. While Mourinho guided Fenerbahçe to a second-place finish in the 2024/25 Süper Lig, the team collected only 84 points with 90 goals scored, compared to the 99 points and 99 goals achieved in the 2023/24 campaign. Koç emphasized that the club’s “genetics” demand a more attacking, high-pressing style of football — something he felt was missing during Mourinho’s tenure.

Who will be Fenerbahçe’s next coach?

Koç confirmed that Mourinho’s replacement will be announced “within the next 24 hours,” most likely a German coach. He ruled out Luciano Spalletti, who has already stated he will not take a job this season, and closed the door to further Portuguese appointments:

“Our community no longer wants to hear about Portuguese names. That’s why we have turned toward the German school.”

The immediate future for Fenerbahçe appears set on a new course, seeking a more offensive and attractive style following Mourinho’s short and turbulent era in Istanbul.