Jose Mourinho has issued a bold challenge ahead of Fenerbahce’s crucial Europa League last-16 second leg against Rangers, insisting his side is superior and has every chance of overturning their 3-1 deficit from the first leg. The Turkish giants suffered a rare defeat in Glasgow last week, ending their impressive 18-game unbeaten run, but Mourinho remains adamant that Fenerbahce can turn the tie around.
Mourinho: ‘We Are the Better Team’
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, the Portuguese manager made it clear that he does not view Rangers as a superior side despite the first-leg loss.
“I think Rangers are not a better team than us,” Mourinho stated. “And I think we have a chance of qualifying. It’s not about revenge or proving anything—it’s just the fact that I honestly believe we are better.”
While Mourinho acknowledged that Fenerbahce deserved to lose in the first leg, he pointed out that the team still has the quality to respond and secure a place in the quarter-finals.
Tactical Mind Games: Mourinho Challenges Rangers’ Approach
Never one to shy away from psychological battles, Mourinho turned up the heat on Rangers interim boss Barry Ferguson, questioning whether the Scottish side would adopt a defensive approach at Ibrox.
“I don’t know if Ibrox, as a very iconic British stadium like many in Scotland and England, will accept a very defensive performance like they had in Fenerbahce,” Mourinho remarked. “That was successful for them, but a very defensive performance. I don’t know if they are going to accept it.”
By making these comments, Mourinho is seemingly attempting to provoke Rangers into playing a more open, attacking game—one that could suit Fenerbahce’s counter-attacking style.
Ferguson Ready for a Mourinho Masterclass
Barry Ferguson, who took over on an interim basis following Philippe Clement’s sacking, is fully aware of the challenge that awaits his side in Istanbul.
“Standing on the touchline (alongside Mourinho last week), it was an honour for me,” Ferguson said. “He’s got a real good team, he’s a top-class manager.”
Despite the strong position his team holds after the first leg, Ferguson has warned his players to expect an aggressive Fenerbahce performance.
“He would have been hurting, I know that for a fact,” he added. “You’ll see a different kind of Fenerbahce tomorrow night, there’s no doubt about that.”
Rangers Aiming to End Historic Losing Streak at Ibrox
While Rangers may have the upper hand in the tie, they face an unwanted record of their own. A defeat at Ibrox would mark the club’s fourth consecutive home loss for the first time in history.
Ferguson, however, is determined to ensure that his side embraces the challenge in front of their passionate home crowd.
“We need to light that fire in the stands, that’s what we need to start doing,” he said. “As a manager, I can’t wait. You’ve got to be excited about this.”
With both teams entering the second leg with a point to prove, the stage is set for a thrilling European night at Ibrox. Mourinho’s confidence, Ferguson’s determination, and the pressure on both clubs will ensure a tense and dramatic encounter as they battle for a place in the Europa League quarter-final.
READ NEXT:
