Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce staged a remarkable comeback to hold Manchester United to a 1-1 draw in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, marking a challenging night for the Red Devils as they recorded their third consecutive draw in the competition.
The match at Istanbul’s Ülker Stadium saw Mourinho receive a red card as he passionately protested for a penalty, underlining the emotional intensity of the encounter.
United took the lead just before halftime, with Christian Eriksen scoring his fourth goal of the season from the edge of the area after being set up by Joshua Zirkzee.
However, the visitors’ advantage was short-lived. Just four minutes into the second half, Youssef En-Nesyri found the back of the net with a header, connecting perfectly with Allan Saint-Maximin’s cross to level the score at 1-1.
The game turned heated when Mourinho was shown a red card by French referee Clement Turpin, just before the hour mark. The incident unfolded as Bright Osayi-Samuel went down under a challenge from United midfielder Manuel Ugarte.
Despite fervent protests from the Fenerbahce bench, VAR upheld Turpin’s decision that no foul had been committed, leading to Mourinho’s ejection.
The Portuguese manager took his time leaving the technical area, eventually positioning himself at the front of the stand to continue directing his players.
United had opportunities to reclaim the lead but failed to capitalize. Substitute Rasmus Hojlund chose to shoot rather than pass to the better-placed Alejandro Garnacho, resulting in a weak effort that rolled into the arms of Fenerbahce goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic.
Garnacho himself later squandered a chance when he lost control of the ball in the box, preventing United from converting their opportunities into goals.
Adding to United’s woes, Brazilian winger Antony suffered an injury and had to be stretchered off after an awkward landing following an unnecessary flick near the touchline.
Manager Erik ten Hag faced yet another challenge as he contended with an already lengthy injury list, with only suspended captain Bruno Fernandes expected to return for their upcoming match against West Ham.
Despite the disappointment of another draw, there were bright spots for United. Ugarte and goalkeeper Andre Onana were instrumental in keeping the score level.
Onana’s quick reflexes were on display, making critical saves to deny En-Nesyri earlier in the match, which kept United ahead until Fenerbahce’s equalizer.
For Ten Hag, this was a mixed night; while the team’s performance showed potential, three points from three games is not the standard expected from Manchester United.
The club now looks to regroup ahead of their next fixture against Greek side PAOK at Old Trafford, with hopes of finding their rhythm and securing a much-needed victory.
As Mourinho exited the field, the spotlight was once again on him—a familiar position throughout his career. This match encapsulated his enduring influence in football, as he continues to command attention both on and off the pitch.
Meanwhile, Manchester United must address their inconsistencies if they wish to reestablish themselves as a force in European football.
