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Fenerbahçe looks to Italy and Portugal for the post-Mourinho era. For now, the Portuguese former Milan coach is in the lead, but the former Italian national team coach remains a concrete possibility. Another name is also in the background.

The Turkish club is still in search of a new coach after the dismissal of José Mourinho, following their painful elimination in the Champions League playoff against Benfica. Two goalless draws in Turkey (0-0) and a decisive goal by Rafa Silva in Lisbon (1-0) condemned the Yellow Canaries to an early exit from the European stage, marking the premature end of the Special One’s adventure on the Bosporus.

Fenerbahçe, a variety of coaching options!

Leading the race to inherit Mourinho’s position is Sergio Conceição. The Portuguese coach, who recently had a challenging experience with Milan — ending with Massimiliano Allegri’s return to the Rossoneri — is well-versed in international football and represents the preferred profile by the Turkish management. His combative mentality and ability to build solid teams seem to suit Fenerbahce’s ambition, determined to make a mark both domestically and in Europe.

Not only Conceição, however. According to the Turkish press, among the names circulating in recent hours is also Luciano Spalletti. The Tuscan coach is experiencing a personal resurgence after a disappointing spell with the Italian national team, which ended with an early exit at Euro 2024. His reputation remains highly regarded on the international market.

Furthermore, it is not the first time that Conceição and Spalletti’s names have crossed paths in the market. Both coaches were linked to the Al-Nassr bench in Saudi Arabia over the summer, before the club ultimately chose Portuguese coach Jorge Jesus.

In addition to Conceição and Spalletti, the speculation around Angelos Postecoglou remains alive. The Greek-Australian coach made his mark in Europe by winning the last Europa League before handing over the reins to Thomas Frank. While his candidacy appears less prominent, it is being carefully considered for his international profile and winning credentials.