Osayi-Samuel rocks Fenerbahce, shuns opportunity to play under Mourinho

Published on by Godfred Budu

According to reports in Turkey, Bright Osayi-Samuel has requested that the Fenerbahçe hierarchy let him go this summer.

He joined Fenerbahce in January 2021 and quickly rose to become a key player for the Turkish top-flight side. Since moving to Turkey, Osayi-Samuel has settled in seamlessly and excelled despite transitioning from winger to right-back.

With his current contract expiring in June 2025, the Fenerbahçe hierarchy were taking proactive measures to extend it to prevent him from leaving for free.

The 26-year-old, as per Turkish outlet Sabah, has been on the radar of several English clubs for months, however, a factor which may be behind the Nigeria international's sudden decision.

Bright Osayi-Samuel: England return depends on Jose Mourinho's report

In the recently concluded 2023/24 Turkish Super Lig season, Osayi-Samuel scored four goals and provided one assist in 23 games.

In spite of what was a strong campaign both on a personal level and for Fenerbahce, the feeling remains that the full-back is unsettled in Turkey.

In mid-March, Osayi-Samuel and a few of his teammates were caught up in a post-match brawl with a pitch invader, and faced disciplinary proceedings with the league administration before he was ultimately cleared.

This, as well as the aforementioned interest, appear to have strengthened his resolve to return to English football.

Bright Osayi-Samuel rocks Fenerbahce, shuns opportunity to play under Jose Mourinho
Photo by Icon Sport

After emerging from the Blackpool youth system, Osayi-Samuel cut his teeth as a professional with QPR, where he tallied an impressive total of 13 goals in 115 appearances across all competitions.

Should the Fenerbahçe hierarchy accept his request, the Nigeria international would miss out on the opportunity to work with the legendary José Mourinho, who was recently named the club's new manager.

The club's approval, however, reportedly hinges on the results of an ongoing squad appraisal by the former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss. That report, set to be completed in the coming days, will no doubt inform their course of action.

Avatar photo

Godfred Budu

Godfred Budu, a Ghanaian sports journalist, brings a dynamic perspective to the field with over a decade of experience. Having contributed to esteemed platforms such as Kickgh.com and Inkandkicks.com. Godfred is recognised for his insightful commentary and in-depth analysis of African football.
His passion for storytelling and commitment to accuracy have established him as a trusted authority in sports journalism in Ghana, captivating audiences with his engaging narratives and unparalleled expertise.
Godfred holds a degree in Integrated Development Studies (Social and Development Administration option) from the University for Development Studies, Ghana.