Mourinho’s Frustration Grows as Rangers Face Depleted Fenerbahce
Rangers travel to Turkey for their crucial Europa League clash against Fenerbahce, and things seem to be falling in their favor at the perfect time. While the Scottish side is welcoming back key players from injury, Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce is reeling from a series of significant absences.
The Special One has publicly voiced his frustration, claiming that the suspension rules in the competition are unfair to teams like Fenerbahce, who had to go through the play-offs. With four key players missing, Mourinho believes Rangers have an undue advantage ahead of their last-16 showdown.
Rangers’ Recent Struggles at Ibrox a Concern?
Despite their fortunate timing in facing a depleted Fenerbahce, Rangers have been struggling in recent weeks. Barry Ferguson, a club legend, has expressed concern over their performances, particularly at Ibrox, where they have suffered three consecutive home defeats.
Losses against Motherwell, Kilmarnock, and St Mirren have raised alarms, with the team repeatedly falling behind early. A similar performance in Istanbul could spell the end of their Europa League ambitions.
However, the return of key players, including John Souttar and Leon Balogun, has given Rangers a much-needed boost. Souttar, hailed by former boss Philippe Clement as the team’s best defender, is expected to make a significant difference in the defensive line.
Mourinho’s Injury Nightmare: Four Key Players Missing
While Rangers are regaining their strength, Fenerbahce finds themselves in a difficult situation. Mourinho will have to navigate the crucial match without four of his key players:
1. Fred (Suspended)
The former Manchester United midfielder has been pivotal for Fenerbahce this season, contributing four goals and eight assists. His ability to dictate the tempo and control the midfield has made him one of Mourinho’s most reliable players. His suspension is a massive blow to the Turkish side.
2. Bright Osayi-Samuel (Suspended)
Osayi-Samuel has been Mourinho’s go-to option on the right flank in the Europa League, providing pace and attacking width. His absence forces Fenerbahce to make a crucial tactical adjustment.
3. Oguz Aydin (Unavailable)
With five goals and six assists this season, Aydin has been one of Fenerbahce’s most consistent attacking threats. However, he was left out of the club’s Europa League roster in favor of new signings Milan Skriniar, Filip Kostic, and Anderson Talisca.
4. Ismail Yuksek (Injury Doubt)
Mourinho had hoped that Yuksek would fill the void left by Fred in midfield, but the Turkish international is struggling with a thigh muscle injury. He remains a major doubt for the game.
Mourinho Slams Europa League Suspension Policy
Mourinho didn’t hold back in his criticism of UEFA’s suspension rules. He argued that teams that had to go through the play-offs face an unfair disadvantage, as yellow card accumulation continues into the knockout rounds.
“When you play so many matches, it’s inevitable for yellow cards to accumulate. I don’t think it’s fair for these cards to be valid against teams that have played four matches less than us,” Mourinho stated.
He emphasized Fred’s importance and admitted that the Brazilian’s absence leaves a major gap in the squad. Despite the setbacks, he remains determined to find a solution.
“We have faced many such difficulties, but we never cried. We somehow find a solution. But yes, Fred is an important missing piece for us.”
Fenerbahce Still Have Firepower – Can Rangers Handle It?
Despite their missing stars, Fenerbahce still possess serious quality, with experienced players like Edin Dzeko, Dusan Tadic, Sebastian Szymanski, and Youssef En-Nesyri leading the attack.
Youssef En-Nesyri: Rangers’ Biggest Threat
The Moroccan striker, who won the Europa League twice with Sevilla, has been in lethal form. En-Nesyri has already scored six goals in this season’s competition, bringing his tally to 26 across all competitions. His aerial ability and physical presence will be a huge test for the returning John Souttar.
Mourinho will rely on En-Nesyri’s goal-scoring instincts to counterbalance the absence of Fred in midfield. Meanwhile, Tadic and Szymanski will be tasked with providing creativity and link-up play in attack.
Rangers Must Take Advantage – But Can They?
This game presents a golden opportunity for Rangers. With Fenerbahce weakened and missing key players, they have the perfect chance to secure a crucial result in Istanbul.
However, their recent form suggests that this will be far from easy. Philippe Clement’s side has struggled with consistency, and if they repeat their recent defensive lapses, even a weakened Fenerbahce could capitalize.
With Souttar and Balogun back in defense and Dujon Sterling returning to full fitness, Rangers will need to show resilience and discipline to shut down Fenerbahce’s attacking threats.
Final Thoughts – Will Rangers Deliver?
Jose Mourinho may be frustrated by the suspensions, but he still has a strong squad capable of hurting Rangers. The Scottish side must remain focused and take advantage of their opponent’s weaknesses.
Can Rangers break their poor run of form and make a statement in Turkey? Or will Mourinho’s experience and tactical prowess find a way to overcome adversity once again?
We’ll find out when the two teams clash in Istanbul.
Source: Rangers News