Mourinho receives high praise from his opponent

Before the Champions League encounter, coach Eddie Howe expressed particular admiration for Jose Mourinho, describing the “Special One” as a trailblazer and an icon of contemporary football.

Prior to the match against Benfica in the Champions League, coach Eddie Howe offered exceptional praise for Jose Mourinho, referring to the “Special One” as “a pioneer of modern football.” Newcastle will host the Portuguese club at St James’ Park in a crucial game early Wednesday morning (Vietnam time).

Although going through a period of inconsistent form, Howe showed enthusiasm about facing the legendary strategist who has won the Champions League with Porto and Inter Milan. “I have great respect for Mourinho. As a young coach, I learned a lot from the teams he built at Chelsea. He broke the mold of management styles and opened up a new vision for European football,” Howe shared.

On Mourinho’s side, the Portuguese coach also expressed special affection for Newcastle, a club linked to the legendary Sir Bobby Robson, who was his mentor at Sporting, Porto, and Barcelona. “I always feel a sense of belonging when I come here. Sir Bobby instilled in me a deep passion for Newcastle, the city, and its fans. I have always considered myself a small part of the club,” Mourinho said emotionally.

Currently managing Benfica in his second spell after 25 years, Mourinho admitted the task ahead is challenging as the Portuguese side has yet to secure a win in this season’s Champions League. Meanwhile, Newcastle bounced back from a defeat to Barcelona with a victory over Union Saint-Gilloise to regain confidence.

“Newcastle is on the right track. Since the arrival of the new management, they have worked methodically without making hasty decisions. Eddie Howe is building a cohesive team with a clear identity. I congratulate him and the club for that,” Mourinho added.

The upcoming match at St James’ Park is not only a contest between two historically rich clubs but also an emotional reunion between two generations of coaches—one who shaped modern football and the other striving to continue his own journey.