The two managers share a storied history, with Solskjaer stepping in as Manchester United boss following Mourinho’s departure in 2018. Fast forward to 2025, and both now find themselves at the helm of Turkish giants battling for pride in one of football’s most passionate derby environments. Despite the subtle jab, there was no animosity in the air between the two seasoned managers. Mourinho played down any notion of a grudge, explaining that their interactions were courteous.
"Ole is here for a few months," said Mourinho "He is experienced and intelligent enough to learn what he has to learn. I am nobody to give him advice. We spoke in the tunnel before the game. It was normal things two guys who respect each other but have to play a match say to each other. After it was the same.
"We are experienced enough for him not to be on the moon because he won, just as I am not in hell because I lost a derby. We respect each other well. I think we like each other too. I would say that."