“Mourinho Has Changed”: Sport Journalists Reflect on Fenerbahçe’s Attacking Style

“NO OTHER COACH COULD HAVE DONE IT”

Gürcan Bilgiç: It was a game with much to discuss, both good and bad. The only clear takeaway was the difference in squad quality and on-field productivity between the two teams. Mourinho boldly made decisions, such as starting Mert Hakan and Oğuz Aydın, benching national players for rest, and opting for Samet-Becao in central defense. No other coach would have dared to make such calls in a tough away game. [Sabah]

“FENERBAHÇE IS WORKING WELL”

Güntekin Onay: This match made it evident—Fenerbahçe is well-prepared. Mourinho’s discipline and seriousness are unmistakable. Additionally, Filip Kostic perfectly fit into the left wing. Before Kostic, Fenerbahçe struggled offensively from the left after Ferdi Kadıoğlu moved. Now, with Kostic, they’ve resolved that issue. The match wasn’t just about the score; it also showcased intense competition within the squad for starting roles. [Hürriyet]

“MOURINHO HAS CHANGED”

Tayfun Bayındır: Fenerbahçe’s goal-heavy performances against Sivasspor and Zenit raised questions about whether Mourinho was shifting his tactical approach. The 6-2 win against Kayseri confirmed that he has. Mourinho has moved away from the philosophy of “score and defend” to pursuing more goals relentlessly. It’s refreshing to see this attacking mindset, and I hope Fenerbahçe continues to embrace its roots in offensive football. [Milliyet]

“IT COULD HAVE BEEN 10-15 GOALS”

Ahmet Çakar: Fenerbahçe played brilliantly in the first half-hour, scoring three goals. We thought the game was over, but things got complicated. A Djiku own goal before halftime and a Livakovic error early in the second half made it 3-2. Just as panic set in, En-Nesyri’s fourth goal brought relief. Oğuz Aydın and Mert Hakan were the standout performers, proving their worth to Mourinho. This might be one of the most action-packed games in Süper Lig history. [Sabah]

“MAN OF THE MATCH”

Uğur Meleke: After a poor performance in Alkmaar, Fenerbahçe made significant rotations against Sivasspor, which seemingly won Mourinho over. He maintained a similar setup against Kayserispor, with Kostic and Osayi-Samuel on the wings and En-Nesyri leading the attack. Mert Hakan Yandaş orchestrated the midfield brilliantly, being involved in three of the four goals scored during his 65 minutes on the pitch. Kostic and Oğuz also shone brightly, forming a fantastic left-sided duo. [Hürriyet]

“HE WOULD HAVE BEEN ON THE BENCH AGAIN”

Ömer Üründül: I often criticized Mourinho for not using Oğuz, who had a great season with Alanyaspor last year. Against Kayseri, Oğuz was the star of the match. If not for Saint-Maximin‘s injury, Oğuz might have been benched again. Despite some risky substitutions by Mourinho, Oğuz and Mert Hakan delivered key performances. The team’s defensive struggles, especially with Kostic playing left-back, and physical dips in players like Fred, are areas of concern. [Sabah]

“SPECIAL PRAISE FOR OĞUZ”

Reha Kapsal: Oğuz Aydın and Filip Kostic were the stars. Oğuz grabbed his chance and delivered an exceptional performance, sending a strong message to Mourinho. His partnership with Kostic was remarkable. After this game, players like Saint-Maximin, İrfan Can, and Szymanski might feel the pressure. Oğuz was a standout at Alanyaspor, and he’s proving why he belongs at Fenerbahçe. [Fotomaç]

“OĞUZ AYDIN SHINES”

İbrahim Yıldız: Oğuz Aydın shone brightly, scoring two goals and assisting another. Standing out in a squad like Fenerbahçe’s is no easy task, but Oğuz has made his mark. His performance delighted both the coaching staff and the fans. This match showed he deserves a permanent spot, and his contributions will also be invaluable to the national team. It’s a pity Mourinho didn’t utilize him earlier. [Habertürk]