Eddie Howe has a record of just one win in eight previous encounters with Jose Mourinho.
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has described Benfica’s Jose Mourinho as a “visionary” ahead of their Champions League clash.
Howe is set to face off against the two-time Champions League-winning manager on the sidelines during their group stage match at St James’ Park on Tuesday.
He holds Mourinho in high regard, citing the former Chelsea, Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid boss as one of the all-time managerial greats who has left a “big impact” on his career.
“I hugely admire him, having competed against him previously in the Premier League,” Howe stated.
“As a younger coach, I particularly admired the teams he constructed at Chelsea.”
“He is undeniably a visionary, a figure who redefined management through innovative approaches and achieved remarkable success across various clubs and leagues. His career achievements are truly incredible.”
“Any club has a great opportunity when facing one of his teams. I’m eagerly anticipating the challenge and believe it will be a compelling match.”
Mourinho considers himself “a little Magpie” due to his connection with former Newcastle manager Sir Bobby Robson.
The Portuguese coach served as an interpreter and assistant to Sir Bobby at Sporting Lisbon, Porto, and Barcelona during the 1990s.
Mourinho has expressed his admiration for Newcastle over the years, stating that he “loved” the club prior to the upcoming game.
“I share Jose’s sentiments regarding Newcastle,” Howe commented.
“His kind words about Sir Bobby and the role he played in his career are truly appreciated. However, that camaraderie ends tomorrow.”
“Once the game begins, our focus is solely on winning. We are determined to secure the points, and I anticipate a competitive match between two exceptional clubs.”
Newcastle suffered a 2-1 defeat to Brighton in the Premier League on Saturday and are evaluating the fitness of influential midfielder Sandro Tonali, who is currently unwell.
“We will afford him every opportunity to recover,” Howe stated. “He was absent from training today, and given his importance to the team, we will utilize all available time to assess his condition.”
Mourinho believes Newcastle are “even closer to bigger things” after Howe ended the club’s trophy drought last season.
Newcastle secured their first major domestic trophy in 70 years in March with a 2-1 victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final.
Howe’s team currently sits 13th in the Premier League, but Mourinho cautioned reporters “not to be deceived by their league position.”
The Benfica manager predicted they are “even closer to bigger things” in the years ahead.
“I understand that Newcastle and its supporters aspire to achievements greater than the League Cup, but it represents a significant beginning,” he stated. “Participating in the Champions League is another crucial step, and I believe the club is progressing in the right direction.”
“Many clubs with new ownership and financial resources make poor decisions resulting in instability. Newcastle, since the arrival of the new ownership and Eddie Howe, and following the change of sporting directors for understandable reasons, have demonstrated remarkable stability.”
“Their player acquisitions consistently align with the club’s vision. They are executing their strategy effectively, which explains their current success. I commend Eddie, the club, and the fans.”
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