Fenerbahce manager José Mourinho has denied reports suggesting a possible reunion with Cristiano Ronaldo at the Turkish club, following speculation that the two had discussed the matter over the phone.
Mourinho, who previously managed Ronaldo at Real Madrid, where they secured the La Liga title in 2011-12 and a Copa del Rey victory the year before, dismissed the rumors during a press briefing.
Addressing questions about signing the Al Nassr forward, whose contract runs until 2025, Mourinho joked that any reunion with Ronaldo would more likely be over a meal.
“Talks about Cristiano Ronaldo joining Fenerbahce are absurd,” Mourinho stated. “He might come to Istanbul to eat because it’s conveniently between Saudi Arabia and Portugal—or to catch up with his old friend José. We can enjoy a meal at my hotel.”
While Mourinho focuses on Fenerbahce’s pursuit of the Turkish Super Lig title—currently trailing Galatasaray by five points after 12 games—Ronaldo and Al Nassr aim to recover from their recent 2-1 Saudi Pro League loss to Al Qadsiah in an upcoming AFC Champions League Elite clash against Al Gharafa.
Mourinho’s remarks underline his current priorities in Istanbul, with no plans for a reunion with the Portuguese superstar on the field.