Mourinho Slams Galatasaray’s Penalty Decision, Questions Club’s “Human Condition”

Newly appointed Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho has criticised Galatasaray for what he described as a lack of “human condition” after the Turkish champions allowed their veteran goalkeeper, Fernando Muslera, to take a penalty during their title-clinching match.

Galatasaray, who had already secured the Super Lig title ahead of the final round of fixtures, were leading 2-0 late in their last game of the season when they were awarded a penalty in the 89th minute. In a celebratory gesture, long-serving shot-stopper Muslera was handed the opportunity to take the spot-kick. The 37-year-old converted it—marking just his second goal in a 14-year spell with the club—sparking jubilant scenes among teammates and fans.

However, Mourinho was unimpressed with the gesture, suggesting it reflected poorly on the club’s sportsmanship and values.

“The way you celebrate championships shows your human condition,” Mourinho told reporters. “Today’s championship celebrations were like a summary of the stories during the season. When it was 2-0, they made the goalkeeper kick a penalty, which was a great image to show how humane they are.”

Mourinho’s comments signal the beginning of what could be a fiery rivalry between Turkey’s two most successful clubs, as the Portuguese tactician prepares to lead Fenerbahçe into the new season.