Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag heaps praise on “winner” Jose Mourinho ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash with Fenerbahce.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has heaped praise on Jose Mourinho ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash with Fenerbahce.
Last week, Ten Hag criticised the “fairytales” and “lies” surrounding his future after overseeing a poor start to the 2024-25.
However, Man United managed to alleviate some of the pressure building on their manager with a successful outing against Brentford at the weekend.
The Red Devils came from a goal down to record a 2-1 home victory thanks to second-half efforts from Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund.
Ten Hag will now take his side to Turkey for a tricky fixture against Mourinho’s Fenerbahce, with the visitors still searching for their first European win of the season after drawing their opening two Europa League matches against Twente and Porto.
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Ten Hag expresses utmost respect for Mourinho
Mourinho will be familiar with the pressure of being Man United manager after spending over two years in the Old Trafford dugout.
While Mourinho will want to get one over his former club, Ten Hag has offered nothing but respect for the legendary manager ahead of Thursday’s meeting in Istanbul.
Speaking to the Football Writers’ Association, Ten Hag said: “It’s a big game for both of us. I really enjoy facing him [Mourinho] and playing against him.
“He always has good teams, he is a winner and has won so many trophies. He’s an example for many managers, so I will really enjoy playing against him.”
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How has Mourinho fared at Fenerbahce?
Mourinho has enjoyed significant success and won numerous honours in his illustrious managerial career, including three trophies during his time as Man United manager.
The 61-year-old clinched the Europa League, EFL Cup and the Community Shield before he was ultimately sacked in December 2018.
After leaving Old Trafford, Mourinho went on to manager Tottenham Hotspur and Roma, before he was appointed Fenerbahce boss in the summer.
Mourinho has experienced a mixed start to life in Turkey, with his side currently sitting in fourth place and eight points adrift of leaders Galatasaray, who have played one game more.
The Portuguese manager is now preparing to face Man United for the first time since his Tottenham side fell to a 3-1 defeat in April 2021.
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