Portuguese has a long-held affinity with the north-east club following his time working with Sir Bobby Robson at Barcelona
To José Mourinho, Newcastle United represents a road never taken. Whenever Mourinho visits St James’ Park he takes time to stand by the statue of Sir Bobby Robson outside the Milburn Stand and spend a few minutes paying silent tribute to the memory of his mentor.
In 1999 Robson wanted the Portuguese to join him at Newcastle as an assistant manager with a view to eventually taking the top job but Mourinho, who returns to north‑east England for a Champions League engagement with Benfica on Tuesday night, declined.
Written by Louise Taylor
This news first appeared on https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/oct/20/jose-mourinho-eddie-howe-newcastle-benfica-champions-league under the title “‘Little Magpie’ José Mourinho relishing taking Benfica to Newcastle | Louise Taylor”. Bolchha Nepal is not responsible or affiliated towards the opinion expressed in this news article.
