Nigerian forward and Galatasaray talisman, Victor Osimhen faced backlash from social media users on Monday after expressing support for his club’s “anti-racist” statement against Fenerbahce manager, Jose Mourinho.
Galatasaray issued the statement in response to Mourinho’s remarks made during a post-match interview following their 0-0 draw with Fenerbahce.
Mourinho had welcomed the decision to bring in a foreign referee for the match and praised Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic for his “top performance.” However, when discussing a challenge early in the game, Mourinho remarked that a Turkish referee would have reacted with a yellow card after a “big dive” and the opposing bench “jumping around like monkeys.”
In response, Galatasaray condemned Mourinho’s comments as racist, accusing him of making derogatory statements about the Turkish people.
The club announced its intention to initiate criminal proceedings against the Fenerbahce coach and file complaints with both UEFA and FIFA.
On Tuesday, Osimhen reposted Galatasaray’s anti-racism statement on his Instagram, expressing support for the club’s stance.
His action, however, triggered criticism from some netizens. Many felt that Osimhen’s support was unwarranted, claiming Mourinho had been misquoted, while others suggested the player was simply aligning with his club, which employs him.
