Mourinho to Shakeup Fenerbahce Starting XI for Champions League Clash
Fenerbahce’s Champions League qualifying campaign is set to get a major boost with Jose Mourinho ringing the changes for the return leg against Lugano. The Turkish giants welcomed their Swiss opponents to the Sukru Saracoglu on Tuesday, with the Portuguese tactician eager to make a statement.
According to Mackolik, Mourinho is set to drop not one, not two, but THREE players from the starting XI. Ryan Kent, Rade Krunic, and Jayden Oosterwolde, who all started Fenerbahce’s 4-3 win over Lugano in the first leg, are expected to make way for Oguz Aydin, Ismail Yuksek, and Ferdi Kadioglu.
The changes come after a disappointing first-leg performance, which saw Lugano take the lead before Fenerbahce’s Edin Dzeko and Ferdi Kadioglu led the comeback. Mourinho wasn’t pleased with conceding three goals, especially from set-pieces, and will be looking for his side to be more solid at the back.
"Mourinho isn’t one to mess around, and it’s no surprise he’s looking to shake things up ahead of the return leg," said one source close to the club. "The changes will give him a fresh look and an opportunity to get some new players involved."
Fenerbahce’s Champions League qualifying campaign is crucial, as the team looks to bring silverware to Istanbul. After finishing third in the Super Lig last season, Mourinho’s appointment was seen as a statement of intent, and the fans will be eager to see their team succeed on the biggest stage.
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