Mourinho rules out Fellaini’s departure amid talks of Galatasaray switch

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has hailed Marouane Fellaini as an important player for the club and ruled out his departure to Galatasaray.

Reports emerged over the weekend suggesting Fellaini was on the verge of joining the Turkish giants but the Belgium international travelled to Norway for United’s pre-season friendly against Valerenga on Sunday.

Fellaini started against Valerenga and was even on the scoresheet in their 3-0 win before Mourinho leaped to his defence after the match.

“It’s easier for Galatasaray to get me than Marouane,” Sky Sports quote Mourinho as saying. “If they need a manager, they have a chance, but Marouane? Forget it. He is too important to me.”

Mourinho has backed Fellaini several times during his time as United manager and even sanctioned a contract extension for the 29-year-old in January.

Nemanja Matic’s impending arrival will push Fellaini further down the pecking order but he has proved an important player when called upon.

In the last eight Premier League campaigns Fellaini has made more fouls than any other player (449).