Fenerbahçe, under the guidance of newly appointed manager Jose Mourinho, has begun intensive preparations for their upcoming UEFA Champions League 3rd qualifying round rematch against Lille, scheduled for August 13 in Istanbul. Following their narrow 1-0 victory over Adana Demirspor in the Süper Lig opener, Mourinho made a surprising decision to take the team to a training camp three days before the crucial Lille match.The training sessions at Fenerbahçe Can Bartu Tesisleri have been comprehensive, including warm-up and coordination exercises, followed by strength and core workouts on the field. The sessions concluded with small-sided games, focusing on tactical aspects. Players who started in the Adana Demirspor match completed additional recovery exercises.In a positive development for Fenerbahçe, Brazilian midfielder Fred, who was sidelined due to an injury sustained in the previous Champions League qualifier against Lugano, has commenced individual training. The club’s social media channels hinted at Fred’s imminent return with a post stating, ‘The countdown has begun,’ accompanied by a photo of Fred running. His potential return could significantly bolster Fenerbahçe’s midfield options for their European campaign.Mourinho’s approach in his debut Turkish championship match raised eyebrows, as he received a yellow card in the 20th minute for arguing with the referee. This incident highlights the Portuguese coach’s characteristic intensity, which he seems to have brought with him to the Turkish league.As Fenerbahçe continues their preparations, the team and fans alike are eagerly anticipating the crucial match against Lille, which could define their Champions League journey this season.
Key points
- Fenerbahçe, under Jose Mourinho, has begun intensive preparations for their Champions League qualifier against Lille.
- Mourinho surprised the team by implementing a three-day training camp before the Lille match, a new approach for him.
- Brazilian midfielder Fred has started individual training after injury, potentially strengthening Fenerbahçe’s midfield for upcoming matches.
