Mourinho’s Surprising Choice: Why Jadon Sancho, Not Son Heung-min, Became Fenerbahce’s Top Target

Mourinho’s Unexpected Pivot: From Son to Sancho

Did you know? Jose Mourinho, newly appointed at Fenerbahce, was initially rumored to be chasing a reunion with his former Tottenham star Son Heung-min. Turkish and Korean media buzzed with speculation about Son’s potential move, but as negotiations stalled over high transfer fees and salary demands, Mourinho made a dramatic switch. His new priority became Jadon Sancho, the English winger whose career at Manchester United and Chelsea had hit a turbulent patch. This decision shocked many, especially as Son remains a global superstar, but it reflects both financial realities and Mourinho’s belief in Sancho’s untapped potential.

The Personal Touch: Mourinho’s Direct Call and Salary Agreement

Mourinho isn’t just relying on intermediaries—he reportedly called Sancho directly to persuade him to join Fenerbahce. According to multiple reports, the two reached a personal agreement on a €10 million annual salary (about 15.7 billion KRW), a figure that matches Sancho’s expectations and demonstrates Fenerbahce’s commitment. This hands-on approach is classic Mourinho, who is known for building personal relationships with his players, sometimes with explosive results. Sancho’s willingness to accept the offer signals his desire for a fresh start after a difficult period in England.

Sancho’s Tumultuous Journey: From Wonderkid to Outcast

Jadon Sancho’s story is one of early promise and recent struggle. Once hailed as one of England’s brightest prospects, Sancho left Manchester City’s academy for Borussia Dortmund, where he dazzled with his dribbling, creativity, and flair. His performances earned him a £73 million move to Manchester United, but his time at Old Trafford was marred by inconsistent form, public disputes with manager Erik ten Hag, and two loan spells—one back at Dortmund, another at Chelsea. Despite flashes of brilliance, Sancho never fully settled, and United are now prepared to take a huge loss on his transfer fee just to move him off the wage bill.

Why Fenerbahce? The Turkish Football Context

For international fans, Fenerbahce is more than just a club—it’s a cultural institution in Turkey, boasting one of the most passionate fanbases in Europe. The Super Lig is fiercely competitive, with Istanbul rivals Galatasaray and Besiktas constantly vying for supremacy. Mourinho’s arrival has electrified the league, and signing a player of Sancho’s profile is seen as a statement of intent. Turkish football offers Sancho a chance to revive his career in a less pressurized but highly emotional environment, where foreign stars are adored and expectations are sky-high.

Community Reactions: Excitement, Skepticism, and Memes

Online communities in Korea, Turkey, and England are buzzing with reactions. On Naver and Daum, fans express surprise at the pivot from Son to Sancho, with some lamenting the missed Son-Mourinho reunion. Turkish fans on forums like Ekşi Sözlük and Twitter are excited but cautious, aware of Sancho’s recent struggles but hopeful Mourinho can unlock his best. English forums like Reddit and United-focused sites are split—some are relieved United may finally offload Sancho’s wages, others fear he’ll thrive under Mourinho and prove his doubters wrong. Memes about Mourinho and Sancho’s potentially volatile relationship abound, with jokes about training ground spats and redemption arcs.

Cultural Insight: The Mourinho Effect and Fan Expectations

Mourinho is a global football icon whose every move is scrutinized. His reputation for winning trophies, managing big personalities, and sometimes courting controversy makes any transfer he oversees headline news. In Turkey, his presence elevates the league’s profile, attracting international attention and raising expectations among Fenerbahce’s famously demanding supporters. For Sancho, the move is both a risk and an opportunity: can he rediscover his Bundesliga form in Istanbul’s cauldron, and will Mourinho’s tough love be the catalyst he needs?

Sancho’s Playing Style: What Fenerbahce Fans Can Expect

Sancho is a winger who thrives on creativity, close control, and 1v1 situations. He’s known for his quick feet, dribbling, and ability to cut inside from either flank. At his best, he’s a difference-maker, capable of unlocking tight defenses and providing both goals and assists. Critics point to his inconsistency and questions about his mentality, but supporters argue that with regular minutes and a manager who believes in him, Sancho can return to his Dortmund-level performances. Turkish fans should expect a player eager to prove himself, with the technical skills to light up the Super Lig.

The Broader Transfer Market: What Sancho’s Move Means

Sancho’s potential transfer is symbolic of broader trends in European football: high-profile players seeking new starts outside the traditional ‘big five’ leagues, the growing financial clout of Turkish clubs, and the enduring appeal of working under star managers like Mourinho. For Manchester United, letting Sancho go at a massive loss is a sobering reminder of recent recruitment failures. For Fenerbahce, it’s a bold gamble that could pay off spectacularly—or end in more drama. Either way, the eyes of the football world will be on Istanbul this summer.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Sancho and Fenerbahce

As of June 26, 2025, the deal is not yet finalized, but all signs point to Sancho donning Fenerbahce’s famous yellow-and-blue kit next season. Mourinho’s faith in the English winger could be the turning point in a career that once promised so much. For Fenerbahce fans, the dream of reclaiming domestic glory and making a mark in Europe is alive—and Sancho, not Son, is now at the heart of that ambition. Stay tuned: this is one transfer saga that’s far from over.