“My Problem with Osimhen is That He Dives Too Much” – Mourinho Sparks Rivalry Ahead of Turkish Super Lig

Fenerbahce manager, José Mourinho, has stirred up controversy by accusing Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen of diving too frequently, just as the footballer joins Fenerbahce’s arch-rivals, Galatasaray, on a season-long loan from Napoli.

Osimhen’s arrival in Turkey has heightened the already intense rivalry between Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, with both clubs eyeing the Turkish Super Lig title. Mourinho’s remarks, made during an interview with HT Spor, have added fuel to the fire ahead of the upcoming clashes between the two giants of Turkish football.

Mourinho, who became Fenerbahce’s head coach in June following his departure from AS Roma, is no stranger to Osimhen’s playing style. During his tenure at Roma, Mourinho’s side faced Napoli multiple times, giving him a firsthand look at the Nigerian striker’s tactics.

In a recent viral video, Mourinho praised Osimhen’s talent, comparing him to top African players such as Mohamed Salah. However, he didn’t shy away from expressing his frustration with what he described as Osimhen’s tendency to dive during games.

“The last time we played against him in Roma vs Napoli, I had this conversation with him,” Mourinho said. “I told Osimhen, ‘you are one of the best players in Africa along with Salah. Before, there were Drogba, Eto’o, and Weah. You can’t be diving.’ He dives too much, and that’s my problem with him, but after 10 minutes, we are fine.”

With Osimhen expected to lead Galatasaray’s attack, Mourinho’s comments are likely to increase the tension between the two sides, setting the stage for a fiery showdown in the Turkish Super Lig.