Ghanaian defender Alexander Djiku has joined Jose Mourinho for pre-season training as Fenerbahce gears up for the upcoming season. Djiku is set to play under Mourinho, who was appointed as Fenerbahce’s head coach earlier in June.
The 29-year-old Djiku joins a distinguished list of Ghanaian footballers who have worked with the legendary Portuguese manager, including Michael Essien and Sulley Muntari. Although Mourinho’s pre-season camp began weeks ago, Djiku was granted an extended break after participating in Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR).
Djiku took advantage of the off-season to enjoy a holiday with his wife, Heley, at a resort in Mauritius. Now back in training, he will be assessed by Mourinho, who reportedly has a high regard for the defender.
Djiku has been a vital player for Fenerbahce since joining the club in the summer of 2023 on a free transfer from Ligue 1 side Racing Strasbourg. Last season, he made 36 appearances across all competitions, contributing three goals and two assists.
The former Bastia center-back is expected to play a significant role under Mourinho as Fenerbahce aims to reclaim the Turkish title from rivals Galatasaray. Meanwhile, former Ghana captain Stephen Appiah has expressed confidence that Djiku, like Essien, can elevate his game under Mourinho’s guidance.
Mourinho previously coached Essien at Chelsea and Real Madrid, and achieved a treble with Muntari at Inter Milan. As Djiku begins this new chapter in his career, fans are eager to see how he will develop under one of football’s most renowned managers.
