Didier Drogba Defends Jose Mourinho Amid Racism Allegations

Didier Drogba has come out in support of his former Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho, after accusations of racism following the Turkish Super Lig derby between Fenerbahce and Galatasaray.

Mourinho, who is now the manager of Fenerbahce, was criticised by Galatasaray after a goalless draw on Monday. During the match, Mourinho made a comment about the home bench, saying they were “jumping like monkeys.” This led to Galatasaray accusing him of making “racist statements.”

However, Drogba, who played for Galatasaray in the 2013-14 season and scored 20 goals in 53 appearances, defended Mourinho. Drogba, who worked with Mourinho at Chelsea, posted a message on X, stating, “I’ve known Jose for 25 years, and he is not a racist. Trust me. History proves it.”

Drogba also shared his love for Galatasaray, saying, “You know how proud I was to wear the yellow and red jersey and my love for the most decorated club in Turkey!! We all know how passionate and heated rivalries can be, and I’ve been lucky enough to experience it.”

He further added, “How can my ‘Dad’ be a racist? Come on, guys.”

Mourinho, who took over as Fenerbahce manager in June 2024 after leaving Roma, has been under scrutiny since the comments. Before the derby, he also criticised Turkish referees, stating that it would have been a “disaster” to use a Turkish official for the match. Instead, Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic was chosen after both clubs requested a foreign official.

Following the derby, sources close to Mourinho said he was upset by the accusations and is considering legal action. These sources also pointed out that Mourinho has worked with many black players throughout his career and does not hold any racist views.

Galatasaray board member Can Natan condemned Mourinho’s remarks, calling them “insulting” and “troubling,” saying they showed a pattern of racist behaviour. He also emphasised the importance of respect from influential figures like Mourinho, stating that such comments “foster division” and should not be accepted.

Fenerbahce, however, said Mourinho’s comments had been “completely out of context” and denied any racist intent.

Mourinho has yet to respond publicly to Galatasaray’s statement.