Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho handed Bright Osayi-Samuel his first start in six matches as the Turkish side secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Anderlecht in their Europa League knockout phase playoff clash at Ülker Stadyumu.
The Nigerian international had been used as a substitute in recent Süper Lig fixtures against Göztepe and Alanyaspor, remained on the bench against Rizespor and Erzurumspor FK, and missed the Europa League tie against FC Midtjylland due to suspension. His absence from the starting lineup had fueled speculation about his future, with Premier League clubs Fulham and Crystal Palace reportedly interested in signing him during the January transfer window.
Osayi-Samuel, whose contract expires in less than five months, has been offered a new deal by Fenerbahçe, but no agreement has been reached. Against Anderlecht, he picked up a yellow card for a foul on César Huerta in the 29th minute and was substituted at halftime for Mert Müldür.
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Fenerbahçe cruised to victory with goals from Dusan Tadić, Edin Džeko, and Youssef En-Nesyri, giving them a strong advantage heading into the second leg.
Editorial
Bright Osayi-Samuel’s return to Fenerbahçe’s starting lineup under José Mourinho highlights the unpredictable nature of football careers. Just a few months ago, he was a regular starter; now, he finds himself battling for game time amid contract uncertainty. His situation raises questions about the role of stability in a player’s development versus the lure of a big move.
For Fenerbahçe, his contractual situation presents a dilemma. Losing him on a free transfer in the summer would be a financial blow, but if they cannot convince him to extend his stay, they risk diminishing his value by limiting his playing time. The club must decide whether to reintegrate him fully or plan for his departure.
From Osayi-Samuel’s perspective, he faces a key career decision. At 27, he is at a stage where he needs regular football to remain relevant at both club and international levels. A move to the Premier League could be tempting, but securing a starting role at Fenerbahçe before the end of the season might be the best way to attract top suitors.
Mourinho’s decision to start him in an important European fixture suggests there is still trust in his abilities. However, his early substitution could indicate that he remains on the periphery of the manager’s long-term plans. The coming months will be crucial in determining where his future lies.
Did You Know?
- Bright Osayi-Samuel began his career as a winger but was converted into a right-back after joining Fenerbahçe in 2021.
- He previously played in England for Blackpool and Queens Park Rangers before moving to Turkey.
- Fenerbahçe have won the Turkish Süper Lig 28 times, making them one of the most successful clubs in the country.
- José Mourinho took charge of Fenerbahçe in 2024, making Turkey the fifth different country where he has managed.
- Osayi-Samuel made his Super Eagles debut in 2022 and was part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
