Jose Mourinho believes Newcastle’s Carabao Cup win is only the beginning of their rise, praising the club’s stability and recalling his emotional connection through Sir Bobby Robson.
Benfica boss Jose Mourinho says Newcastle United’s Carabao Cup triumph last season marks the beginning of greater success for the Magpies.
Ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash between Benfica and Newcastle, Mourinho, 62, praised the club’s progress under Eddie Howe and its stability since the Saudi-backed takeover. “I know Newcastle and all the Geordies want a reward that is bigger than the League Cup, but the League Cup is the beginning,” he said.
The Portuguese manager, who worked with the late Sir Bobby Robson at Sporting Lisbon, Porto, and Barcelona, expressed deep affection for the Magpies. “Sir Bobby loved this club, he gave everything to this club. Of course, he would be so happy with that victory in the cup. I was so happy with that victory,” Mourinho said emotionally.
He admitted feeling Robson’s presence upon returning to St James’ Park, saying, “When I walked in here, I exchanged a few words with him and it’s a great emotion.”
Mourinho, who has never managed Newcastle despite frequent links, added that Benfica, pointless after two games, must “enjoy” their test on Tyneside. “It’s beautiful, absolutely beautiful. Even as an opponent, it’s beautiful,” he said.