Okan Buruk on Jose Mourinho: 'I was more upset he didn't shake my hand'

Galatasaray Technical Director Okan Buruk spoke about Jose Mourinho, calling him one of the world's most important and recognized football managers. Buruk shared his thoughts on Mourinho's career and some past interactions between them.

"I like Mourinho," Buruk said, reacting to news of Mourinho's potential appointment at Real Madrid. "Of course, you experience different things here. Those are separate matters. From a sporting perspective, he is one of the most important, most recognized technical directors in the world. Was it a surprise? Of course, it was a big surprise."

Buruk stated that his past on-field tensions with Mourinho were behind him. However, he revealed a different incident bothered him more. "The incident I had with Mourinho on the field is over for me," he explained. "I was more upset that he didn't shake my hand when I went to Kadıköy. A technical director should shake the visiting coach's hand. He didn't stand up when I went to his stadium. Those things bother me more."

Looking ahead, Buruk suggested that a Champions League matchup between Galatasaray and Real Madrid would be exciting. He concluded with a humorous remark, implying he might act differently if such a game occurred: "A Galatasaray-Real Madrid tie in the Champions League would be nice. This time, I might do something." He added a laugh.