'I was afraid' - Mourinho reveals why Osayi-Samuel was replaced at half-time in Fenerbahce's UEL win
Published: February 14, 2025
Fenerbahce manager José Mourinho has revealed why he substituted Bright Osayi-Samuel at half-time during their 3-0 UEFA Europa League victory over Anderlecht on Thursday night.
The Nigerian international, making his first start in six games, was booked in the 29th minute following a challenge on Anderlecht forward.
Concerned about the possibility of a second booking, Mourinho decided to withdraw him at half-time, bringing on Mert Muldur in his place.
Speaking in his post-match reaction, Mourinho praised the overall performance of his players and explained his decision to take off Osayi-Samuel.
"I had to take off Bright because I was afraid of a second yellow card. i couldn't take off Sofyan Amrabat because I didn't have another defender to play, but the team was solid, we scored three goals, we could score more," Mourinho stated.
Osayi-Samuel has been a key figure for Fenerbahce under Mourinho, featuring in 26 matches across all competitions this season and providing one assist.
However, speculation over his future continues, as he has yet to extend his contract with the Turkish giants.
With his current deal set to expire in the summer, Fenerbahce faces pressure to secure his long-term future, amid reported interest from several European clubs.
Adeyemi Adewale
Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com
- 'We have a lot of intelligent players' - Troost-Ekong confident Super Eagles will deliver v Warriors
- 'Zimbabwe have a good team, players, coach' - Eric Chelle urges Super Eagles players to be focused
- The legacy of Tiger Woods
- 'We can't afford to drop points' - Troost-Ekong warns Super Eagles teammates pre-Zimbabwe
- Announcement imminent: Bolton Wanderers loan out 2025 Flying Eagles invitee Dubem Eze
- 2026 WCQ: Zimbabwe defender admits Nigeria has quality but backs Warriors to defy the odds
- Arsenal shot-stopper eligible for Super Eagles and Black Stars makes debut for England U18s
- 'Naija sabi do things with style' – Oliseh hails 1980 Super Eagles for inspiring his love for Nigeria
- Tolu Arokodare: What Eric Chelle told my parents after debut and what to expect v Zimbabwe
- Arokodare shares powerful words from Osimhen, Aina, Lookman, Iwobi, 3 others after Nigeria debut


- Football Betting
- African Players
- Australia/ Asia
- Belgian Championship
- Bundesliga
- Danish Football
- English Premier League
- Nigeria National Teams
- Casinos not on Gamstop
- Nigeria Premier League
- Norwegian Football
- Polish Football
- Russian Championship
- Serie A
- Spanish Liga
- Swedish Championship
- Transfer
- Turkish Championship
- 1Win
- Ukrainian Football
- Uncategorized
- Women's Football
- New88
- hi88
- RR88
- hi88