Fenerbahce manager, Jose Mourinho, has tipped FC Porto as the strongest contenders for this season’s UEFA Europa League trophy.

Mourinho’s men will feature in Pot 2 of the Europa League draw on Friday after their 1-0 defeat to Benfica in the Champions League play-off saw them drop into Europe’s second-tier competition.

Speaking after the loss, the Portuguese tactician admitted that while the Europa League is not on the same level as the Champions League, it is a competition where his team can genuinely compete — but he warned that Porto will be the team to beat.

“The Europa League is a competition better suited to our potential,” Mourinho said.
“There are still good teams, but the level is different from the Champions League. FC Porto are there, and they are strong, very strong.”

Fenerbahce, who impressed in last season’s Europa League before bowing out on penalties to Rangers, will now aim to go further under Mourinho’s guidance.

With big names like Porto, Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Celtic, Rangers, and Fenerbahce all in the mix, fans can expect a fiercely competitive tournament.

For Mourinho, however, his eyes are firmly on one side — and he believes Porto’s experience and quality make them favorites to lift the trophy.