Jose Mourinho has spoken warmly about his affection for Newcastle United and St James’ Park as he prepares to lead Benfica against the Magpies in Tuesday’s Champions League tie.
The Portuguese manager, who famously managed Chelsea during two separate spells, admitted he has always enjoyed visiting Tyneside — even if his record there as a Premier League manager was far from perfect. Mourinho won just once at St James’ Park during his time in England but says the passion of the crowd and the culture around the club make it a special place to play.
“I love playing here,” Mourinho told reporters on Monday. “It’s beautiful playing here, it’s fantastic. It’s an extraordinary atmosphere. People don’t come here to watch the game, they come here to play the game with their team.”
Mourinho hails Newcastle’s culture and direction
The Benfica boss contrasted Newcastle’s footballing culture with that of London’s bigger clubs, highlighting the difference in community spirit and intensity around the game.
“This city has a totally different culture to London, and the big clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal. It’s magical playing here. Newcastle, since the takeover, are heading in the right direction. They’ve signed the right profile of players and with Eddie [Howe] they are a great team.” — Jose Mourinho
Mourinho also dismissed any speculation about a potential Premier League return, insisting he’s fully committed to his current project at Benfica. “I don’t think they need a [new] coach, I don’t think they’ll need me — and I hope it goes well for Eddie,” he added. “I wouldn’t change Benfica for any club in the world.”
Benfica’s Champions League challenge
Mourinho’s side travel to Tyneside still searching for their first points in this season’s Champions League group stage after defeats to Qarabag and Chelsea. In contrast, Newcastle come into the match full of confidence following a 4-0 away win at Union Saint-Gilloise.
The encounter promises to be an emotional return for Mourinho, whose admiration for the St James’ Park atmosphere dates back to his Chelsea days — even if results rarely went his way there.
| Mourinho’s Record at St James’ Park | All Competitions |
|---|---|
| Games Managed | 8 |
| Wins | 1 |
| Draws | 3 |
| Losses | 4 |
source: match data – 20 October 2025
His struggles there clearly haven’t dampened his appreciation for the venue — or his respect for the fans who fill it.
Our View: Classic Mourinho charm with a touch of sincerity
In our view, Mourinho’s comments reflect both his deep respect for English football culture and his enduring ability to charm a crowd. The way he speaks about Newcastle is part nostalgia, part admiration — a rare public display of warmth from a manager known for his competitive edge.
It’s also telling that he went out of his way to praise Eddie Howe, perhaps acknowledging that Newcastle’s current project mirrors the kind of ambitious, well-structured model Mourinho has often admired throughout his career.
Analyst Verdict
I think Mourinho’s praise feels genuine. His connection to English football remains strong, and St James’ Park represents everything he values — passion, noise, and authenticity. For Newcastle fans, hearing one of football’s most decorated managers speak so fondly of their club is another sign of how far they’ve come.
As FootballPlace analyst John William notes: “Mourinho may be Benfica through and through right now, but his respect for Newcastle and its supporters runs deep. It’s pure football emotion.”
Key Insights
- Jose Mourinho says he “loves playing” at St James’ Park ahead of Benfica’s clash with Newcastle
- Described the atmosphere as “extraordinary” and the city’s football culture as “magical”
- Contrasted Newcastle’s passion with the environment at London clubs
- Praised Eddie Howe and Newcastle’s direction since the club’s takeover
- Insists he’s happy at Benfica and not eyeing a Premier League return
What’s Next
Benfica face Newcastle United at St James’ Park on 21 October as they look to earn their first Champions League points of the season. A result could reignite their Group D campaign and give Mourinho another reason to savour his visits to Tyneside.
For Newcastle, a win would keep them on course for knockout qualification and strengthen their unbeaten home record in Europe.
👉 Do you think Jose Mourinho could ever be tempted back to manage in the Premier League again?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 20 Oct 2025 20:54
He's right, I hated it when we went to st. James with his Chelsea - just knew a win wouldn't be possible, even though I always thought that it would be easy with our squads back then.
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