Jose Mourinho Did Not Take Leave After The Empedu Bag Operation, Immediately Focused On Holding Liga

Jose Mourinho immediately focused on the league title even though he had just undergone bile bag surgery (Instagram/@fenerbahce).

JAKARTA - Jose Mourinho has informed Fenerbahce supporters that he is in good health after reports emerged that he will undergo surgery in Portugal due to health problems.

The 61-year-old coach will undergo surgery to remove bile bags during the Christmas holidays.

However, after the results of the Fenerbahce series against Eyupspor 1-1 on December 21, 2024, before the competition break, Mourinho did not mention the surgical procedure. However, he said that the surgery was small.

"Merry Christmas and thank you very much for so many messages. For those of you who have shown concern, I can confirm that reports of my surgery have been exaggerated, it's just a fast and small procedure."

"I will continue training on the first day after the holidays, as usual. I have never missed a single session in 25 years. I don't mean to start now," Mourinho said in a post on his personal Instagram.

The club reported on Monday, December 23, 2024, that Mourinho had completed his operation.

"Our manager, Jose Mourinho, has undergone successful bile bag surgery in his country, Portugal, today. Good luck with our coach whose health condition is very good," the club said in a statement.

Fenerbahce took action again on January 5, 2025 when they hosted the Hatayspor.

Mourinho said it was not a pleasant rest period for him. Nukan because of the operation, but he was disappointed with his team's last game this year.

The results on Saturday, December 21, 2024, early morning WIB, left Fenerbahce in second place in the Super Lig (Super Turkey League) this season, eight points adrift of leaders Galatasaray.

"We're going on a few days off, but it's not a fun rest time for me."

"Actually, I'd rather not take a day off like this, but we've promised the players for a long time."

"Many players don't get more than 10 days off. Therefore, this is an important situation for them to rest. We have to perform better," said Mourinho.

Mourinho, who joined Fenerbahce in the summer and wants to guide his team to win their first Super Lig title in a decade, said they could still compete for the league title.

"No one will convince me that even though we have a long distance from the leaders of the standings, we don't have a chance to win (the title)."

"I refuse to think like this. For me, that opportunity is still open," said Mourinho.

Fenerbahce currently pack 36 points from 16 matches, eight points clear of their rival Galatasaray at the top of the table.