Mourinho comments before UCL match: "We can win, but..."

Pre-Match Press Conference

Ahead of the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round first-leg match, Fenerbahçe will face Lille in France.

Mourinho's Remarks

Jose Mourinho shared his thoughts during the pre-match press conference:

On Team Readiness and Injuries "Unfortunately, we have an important injury. Fred is dealing with a setback. Besides that, the team is in good shape. The players who joined later are gradually improving. We are ready for tomorrow's match."

Language and Transfers "I wish I could speak Turkish. I don't understand what's being said on TV or social media about transfers. In a way, I'm happy not to know. The players on the field will give their best. I'm calm and prefer to focus on the players I have. Of course, if a new player arrives before the transfer window closes, I will welcome him."

Challenges and Team Dynamics "August matches are special. I had a qualifying round with Tottenham. This is the second time it's happening to me. It's the first time we're doing this in a summer with the European Championship. We haven't trained together as a full squad since the beginning of the season. The gradual integration of players has made our job more challenging. Tomorrow, except for Fred, the team will be in better shape."

On Lille as Opponents "I like the Lille team. I didn't think about Lille while playing with Lugano, but after the draw, I've watched many of their matches. I respect them as a good team. They are a tough opponent, but so are we."

Champions League Aspirations "The club has never told me that playing in the Champions League is a necessity. However, it would be prestigious to compete here. We could win the Champions League; anything can happen, but I don't believe in miracles. I can say that we can win the Europa League. Nevertheless, I still prefer to play in the Champions League."