Manchester United’s two most successful managers of the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era will lock horns when Erik ten Hag’s side visits Istanbul to face Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce on Thursday. There is natural intrigue in the Europa League clash as Mourinho prepares to face United for the fifth time since his explosive 2018 sacking.
Ten Hag needs a win after overseeing two frustrating draws at the start of the league phase campaign – first being held by FC Twente before squandering a two-goal lead at FC Porto.
Fenerbahce are slightly better off, also drawing with Twente last time out but beating Royale Union Saint-Gilloise on the opening matchday.
However, the headlines entering Thursday’s clash will likely focus on the clash in the dugout rather than on the pitch, given Mourinho’s history with United.
Ten Hag has never faced the Portuguese tactician across his 12-year managerial career, setting up an unpredictable battle at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium.
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