Fenerbahce: It s actually very relaxing to talk to Mourinho, and he cares about you very much

August 8: Nigerian right-back Osayi Samuel played for four and a half years in Fenerbahce and he transferred to Birmingham this summer. In an interview, Osayi Samuel talked about his experience working with Mourinho.

He said: "When I first met him, before I could say 'Hello', he told me 'You are a good player, but you have to run more.' Before I met Mourinho, I was nervous and asked some teammates, 'What kind of person is he?' I was afraid I would say the wrong thing.

"But when you really talk to Mourinho, you will find that he is like your brother, he makes you feel relaxed and asks a lot of questions about your family and background. Mourinho told me that he likes African players very much because they are strong and fast, he talks a lot about Drogba and Essin and says they are like his brothers. ”

Mourinho's temper in the game also impressed Osayi Samuel. In September 2024, Fenerbahce lost 1-3 to Galatasaray at home in the top game. Osayi Samuel said: "After the game, the opponent's coach (Brook) tried to say something to the referee, but he also said something unpleasant in Mourinho's ear.

"Murinho turned around and pinched their coach's nose. This is Mourinho - you can't mess with him, but he is definitely a great coach."

Osayi Samuel is deeply loved by Fenerbahce fans because of his bravery against Trabzon fans. In November 2024, Fenerbahce defeated Trabzon 3-2, and there were many controversial scenes in the game. Although Osayi Samuel had contact with Trabzon fans who broke into the stadium, the Turkish Super League did not punish him.

He said: "We won the game at the last minute and then celebrated wildly, which is normal. But their fans rushed into the court and had a little bit of a conflict, but I really can't remember exactly what happened. When I returned to Istanbul, there were thousands of fans there supporting me. It wasn't just a football club, it was a big family. I feel that way now in Birmingham."