Fenerbahce manager, Jose Mourinho, has sparked controversy by accusing Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen of diving frequently.
The remarks come after Osimhen’s recent move to Fenerbahce’s fierce rivals, Galatasaray, on a season-long loan from Napoli.
Osimhen’s arrival in Turkey sets the stage for an intense rivalry between Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, as both teams will compete directly for the Turkish Super Lig title.
With the talented striker leading Galatasaray’s attack, tensions between the two sides are expected to rise.
Mourinho, who took over as Fenerbahce’s head coach in June following his departure from AS Roma, is familiar with Osimhen’s playing style from their encounters in Italy’s Serie A.
During his time at Roma, Mourinho’s team faced Napoli on several occasions, giving him insight into the Nigerian forward’s tactics.
In a recent viral video, “The Special One” drew comparisons between Osimhen and Salah, placing them on the same level.
However, he also voiced his disapproval of the Nigerian striker’s tendency to dive.
“The last time we played against him during Roma vs Napoli, I had this conversation with him, ” Mourinho told HT Spor.
“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.”
