Nigerian defender Bright Osayi-Samuel is expected to return to Fenerbahce’s starting lineup when the Turkish side hosts Manchester United in their upcoming Europa League clash, according to Softfootball.
Osayi-Samuel has been absent from Fenerbahce’s squad since being sent off in their 2-1 victory over Union St. Gilloise in the Europa League on September 26.
Despite his red card after just 25 minutes, the Super Eagles full-back played a crucial part in setting up the winning goal before his early exit.
In Osayi-Samuel’s absence, Fenerbahce manager José Mourinho relied on Mert Müldür, who performed well in the team’s victories over Antalyaspor and in draws against Twente Enschede and Samsunspor.
However, with a high-profile fixture looming against Manchester United at the Ülker Stadyumu Fenerbahçe Şükrü Saracoğlu Spor Kompleksi, Mourinho is reportedly planning to restore Osayi-Samuel to the starting XI.
Thursday’s match will be a special one for Mourinho, who managed Manchester United from 2016 to 2018, leading the club to a Europa League and EFL Cup double in 2017. He will be keen to avoid a loss against his former club, especially on home turf.
According to Turkish outlet Fanatik (via Mackolik), Mourinho is considering Osayi-Samuel’s return as part of his tactical setup to take on the Premier League giants.
Fenerbahce’s last meeting with Manchester United occurred in November 2016, when Mourinho’s United suffered a 2-1 defeat in the Europa League group stage.
The Turkish side has made a strong start to this season’s competition, earning four points from their first two matches, including a win over Union St. Gilloise and a draw with FC Twente.
Fenerbahce will be looking to extend their unbeaten home streak in European competition, which stands at seven games (W4 D3). Adding to their confidence, they have won their last two home matches against Manchester United.
Despite Mourinho’s impressive record, he has only won two of his last 17 games against former clubs (D4 L11), though one of those wins was a 6-1 thrashing of United at Old Trafford with Tottenham Hotspur in 2020.
Osayi-Samuel’s return could be pivotal as Fenerbahce looks to secure a result, while Mourinho aims to outmaneuver his former side with a tactical masterclass.