Ivorian legend Didier Drogba has come to the defense of his former manager, Jose Mourinho, following accusations of racism from the Portuguese coach by Drogba’s former club, Galatasaray.
The controversy erupted after Mourinho, who currently manages Fenerbahce, made comments about the Galatasaray bench “jumping like monkeys” during a recent 0-0 draw between the two Turkish rivals.
In response, Galatasaray announced their intention to “initiate criminal proceedings concerning the racist statements made by Jose Mourinho” and pledged to submit official complaints to UEFA and FIFA.
However, Drogba, who played under Mourinho’s tutelage at Chelsea, has staunchly refuted the allegations of racism.
In a post on X, the Chelsea legend wrote, “Dear @GalatasaraySK … 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.
“Ive 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.”
He then signed off with: “How can my ‘Dad’ be a racist … come on guys.”
Drogba and Mourinho have had successful partnership at Chelsea where they won Premier League and Champions League titles together.
