Didier Drogba backs 'dad' Mourinho in racism row as former Galatasaray star pledges Fenerbahce boss loyalty

The former Chelsea striker was clear he is on the side of his ex coach and current Fenerbahce boss

Robbie Chalmers Sports Trends Writer

14:30, 26 Feb 2025

Ivorian footballer Didier Drogba(Image: Getty Images)

Didier Drogba has voiced his support for former manager Jose Mourinho after he got embroiled in a Turkish football racism row.

The Fenerbahce boss was accused of racism by Istanbul rivals Galatasaray during their heated 0-0 draw on Monday night. The former Chelsea and Manchester United gaffer described the opposition bench as "jumping around like monkeys" following a refereeing decision in the Intercontinental Derby.

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His words have sparked Gala outrage, who accused him of making "racist statements" and revealed they intend to "launch criminal proceedings" against him. But Mourinho has found a vocal alley in his former striker Didier Drogba. The pair spent three years together at Chelsea between 2004 and 2007 winning two Premier League titles. They reunited at Stamford Bridge in 2014 before clinching another title gong. Drogba joined Galatasaray after his second Chelsea stint but he took to social media to show where his loyalties truly lie.

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Speaking on X, Drogba wrote: "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.

Mourinho is in the Galatasaray firing line(Image: Getty Images)

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"I've seen the recent comments about Jose Mourinho. Trust me when I tell you I have known Jose for xx 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 5 [star emoji]. How can my 'Dad' be a racist. Come on guys".

Galatasaray want UEFA and FIFA to act over the Portuguese manager which could jeopardise his place on the bench in European competitions. Mourinho and his Turkish Super Lig side will host Barry Ferguson's Rangers in Istanbul for their Europa League last-16 first leg on Thursday March 6.