Eddie Howe Calls Jose Mourinho a Visionary Before Newcastle vs. Benfica
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe recently praised José Mourinho, calling him a “visionary” ahead of their upcoming match against Benfica. Howe admires Mourinho’s coaching prowess and the groundbreaking teams he has built, particularly during his tenure at Chelsea.
Eddie Howe’s Admiration for José Mourinho
In discussing Mourinho’s impact on football management, Howe noted, “He is definitely a visionary – someone that broke the mould in terms of how you manage and the different ways to do things.” He emphasized Mourinho’s remarkable achievements across various clubs and leagues, expressing excitement about facing a team coached by such a prominent figure.
Mourinho’s Connection to Newcastle
Mourinho, who refers to himself as “a little Magpie,” has a deep appreciation for Newcastle United. This fondness stems from his relationship with former Newcastle manager Sir Bobby Robson. In the 1990s, Mourinho worked as an interpreter and assistant to Robson at Sporting Lisbon, Porto, and Barcelona.
Prior to the match, Mourinho expressed his love for Newcastle, describing it as a club rich in history and culture. Howe echoed these sentiments, acknowledging Mourinho’s positive words about Sir Bobby Robson’s influence in his career.
Match Expectations and Player Updates
Looking ahead to the game, Howe emphasized the competitive nature of the upcoming clash. “When the game kicks off, we want to win. We are desperate for the points,” he stated. Newcastle aims to bounce back after their recent 2-1 defeat to Brighton in the Premier League.
- Match: Newcastle vs. Benfica
- Recent Result: Newcastle lost 2-1 to Brighton
- Key Player: Sandro Tonali (illness)
Howe confirmed that they would conduct a late fitness check on Tonali, highlighting his importance to the team. “We will give him every opportunity,” Howe said, stressing his vital role within the squad.
