Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho grabbed the nose of Galatasaray head coach Okan Buruk after Fenerbahce were eliminated from the Turkish Cup, following a fierce 2-1 defeat where Victor Osimhen starred for Galatasaray. The tension escalated as the match neared its conclusion, resulting in Mourinho’s unexpected gesture towards Buruk.

Buruk fell to the ground in response, highlighting the dramatic nature of the incident, while Mourinho quickly retreated to the dressing room. Previously managing top European clubs such as Chelsea and Inter Milan, Mourinho joined Fenerbahce in the summer of 2024 after his departure from AS Roma. His presence has already stirred controversy, including a lawsuit against him by Galatasaray for alleged racist remarks made during a press conference.

The rivalry intensified this season, particularly after Mourinho’s recruitment, with ongoing disputes and accusations of corruption directed at Galatasaray. The situation reached a boiling point during a recent derby that also involved extensive police presence at the stadium.

“José Mourinho grabbed the nose of Galatasaray manager Okan Buruk after Fenerbahçe were knocked out of the Turkish Cup by their heated rival 👃😳 pic.twitter.com/EHYwkigPWk”— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) April 2, 2025

This incident is not Mourinho’s first controversial moment involving rival coaches, recalling a notorious incident in 2011 with Pep Guardiola’s former assistant where he poked Tito Vilanova in the eye. After this recent episode, it remains uncertain what disciplinary actions Mourinho might face, with indications suggesting a possible four-game ban.