"How can my dad be a racist?" - Drogba and Essien defend Mourinho

Galatasaray confirmed they would launch criminal proceedings against Fenerbahce manager Mourinho following Monday's drawn league match when the 62-year-old said the home bench had been "jumping like monkeys".

While Mourinho has yet to comment publicly on the allegation, Fenerbahce responded by saying the Portuguese coach's comments had been "taken out of context" and "deliberately distorted".

Didier Drogba, who was Chelsea's record signing when he joined in 2004 and one of Mourinho's key players when he guided them to back-to-back Premier League titles, took to X to lend his support.

He said: "Dear Galatasaray, 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.

"I've seen the recent comments about Jose Mourinho. Trust me when I tell you I have known Jose for 25 years and he is not a racist and history (past and recent ) is there to prove it.

"Let’s focus on our games, support our brilliant lions and let’s win the league to get close to our five stars. How can my “Dad” be a racist? Come on guys."

Essien also came to his old coach's defence, posting on X and Instagram an old photo of himself and Drogba alongside Mourinho, accompanied by three hearts.

 

February 26, 2025