Twente Coach Oosting: ‘Fenerbahçe is a Strong Team, But We’re Prepared for the Battle’

Speaking at a press conference held at Twente Stadium, where the match will take place, the 52-year-old coach recalled that the two teams faced each other last year.

Oosting noted that both clubs have improved and will face each other at a higher level, saying, “We want to continue the performance we showed against Manchester United last week. Manchester United may underestimate us, but that gave us a better feeling. We played very well last week and aim to continue this. They have a physically strong squad. They also have a very important, world-famous coach who knows exactly what to expect from his players.”

Talking about Fenerbahçe‘s defensive strength in duels, Oosting added:

“Fenerbahçe is a brave team. They are creative and fast upfront. We are playing at home. Last year, we also played well against them. Fenerbahçe is a huge club, and Mourinho is a very special coach. He is a realistic person, but I think we are too. I watch every match, and I try to learn something from every game. I’m not a coward; I have great respect for Mourinho. Tomorrow, I will shake his hand and say ‘welcome.’ When asked ‘Fenerbahçe or Manchester City,’ I say I watch both, and I like both. This year, we feel closer to Fenerbahçe. We’ve improved, and we didn’t finish 3rd in the Netherlands for nothing. We also have important weapons. Playing at home is great. Our fans and stadium are fantastic. I think we will have more chances with the support of our fans. The squad we played against Manchester United will likely be the same.”

Emphasizing that he made a mistake last year by playing with a back five but has learned from it, Oosting added, “I have great respect for Mourinho. He’s a unique character. The way he expresses himself is admirable. He’s not taking us lightly. He’s a coach who prepares very well, and he will have prepared well against Twente.”

Youri Regeer: “We’ve improved a lot and are ready for the match”

Twente’s young midfielder Youri Regeer expressed their desire to repeat their performance against Manchester United.

The 21-year-old midfielder said:

“Last year, we went down to 10 men in our match, and I got a red card. We lost 5-1, but we were playing with 10 men. Everything changed after the red card. We’ve improved a lot and are ready for the match. Last week’s game was a great feeling, and we will strive to show the same football. When I first heard of Fenerbahçe in the draw, I thought they were a strong opponent. I didn’t think about last year; it happened and is over. We have to move on. I just have to do my job on the field. As a player, I’m improving. I’m in better form this year. Our atmosphere has always been good, and we’ve secured good points. We know we will be even better, and we are focused on that. It’s normal that I’ve played the most minutes in the team because I know my capacity. I’m a versatile player. I feel comfortable both in midfield and at right-back.”