Didier Drogba has taken to social media to passionately defend Jose Mourinho after racism allegations from former club Galatasaray.
On Monday evening, the two Turkish giants played out a goalless draw at Rams Park, a result that edged Galatasaray nearer to another Super Lig title.
However, after the game, Galatasaray said that they would "initiate criminal proceedings" against Fenerbahce manager Mourinho for what they deemed to be "racist statements".
In his post-match press conference, Mourinho had said that the Galatasaray bench had been "jumping like monkeys" in their efforts for an early yellow card to be handed out to one of his players.
Slovenian official Slavko Vincic had been appointed for the game, a consequence of frequent criticism regarding Turkish referees and at the request of both clubs.
The full statement from Galatasaray read: "Since the commencement of his managerial duties in Turkey, Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has persistently issued derogatory statements directed towards the Turkish people. Today, his discourse has escalated beyond merely immoral comments into unequivocally inhumane rhetoric.
"We hereby formally declare our intention to initiate criminal proceedings concerning the racist statements made by Jose Mourinho, and shall accordingly submit official complaints to Uefa and Fifa.
"Furthermore, we shall diligently observe the stance adopted by Fenerbahce - an institution professing to uphold 'exemplary moral values' - in response to the reprehensible conduct exhibited by their manager."
What has Drogba said?
Drogba, who spent 18 months at Galatasaray in 2013 and 2014, has previously worked with Mourinho during two spells with Chelsea. The Portuguese made the Ivory Coast international one of his first signings when moving to Stamford Bridge in 2004.
After a relationship existing longer than two decades with someone who he calls "Dad", Drogba has taken to social media to call for calm.
Will Drogba's words make a difference?
While Drogba's attempted intervention may be taken on board, the hostilities and rivalry between the two clubs means that his efforts may be in vain.
That is despite Drogba generally being regarded in a positive light by Galatasaray supporters. He netted 20 goals in 53 appearances and helped them win three pieces of silverware during his time at the club.
