Howe Praises Mourinho’s Aura Before Champions League Showdown
Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is gearing up for a significant matchup against Jose Mourinho’s Benfica in the Champions League. Howe, who respects Mourinho’s legacy, sees the Portuguese coach as one of football’s greats. Their clash at St James’ Park is set for Tuesday, marking an important moment in both coaches’ careers.
Howe’s Praise for Mourinho
Howe articulated his admiration for Mourinho during a recent press conference. He stated, “Look what he did. The impact he made initially was incredible. I genuinely believe he should be regarded as one of the all-time greats.” Howe reflected on Mourinho’s influence, especially during his early coaching days, noting that his teams were consistently challenging to defeat.
Mourinho’s Mixed History at St James’ Park
Despite Mourinho’s accolades, St James’ Park has not been his most favorable venue. His record there across twelve visits with Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham includes:
- 3 Wins
- 5 Losses
- 4 Draws
Howe remembers his first meeting with Mourinho fondly, when his Bournemouth team secured a 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge in December 2015. “Any Premier League win is savored,” Howe stated, emphasizing the difficulty of competing against league powerhouses like Chelsea.
Newcastle’s Champions League Aspirations
Newcastle United is determined to rebound after a tough loss to Barcelona. They secured a convincing 4-0 win against Union Saint-Gilloise in their last outing. This upcoming match against Benfica is critical for their aspirations in the tournament.
Team Updates and Key Players
Newcastle is monitoring the fitness of midfielder Sandro Tonali, who missed training due to illness. Howe described him as “touch and go” for the match. Lewis Miley and Jacob Ramsey are prepared to step in if necessary.
Mourinho’s Remarks on the Atmosphere
Jose Mourinho expressed his fondness for playing at St James’ Park, highlighting the vibrant atmosphere. “It’s incredible to play here,” he said. He acknowledged the club’s rich history and passionate fans, stating, “They deserve greater things.”
This clash on Tuesday promises to be a thrilling contest, showcasing Howe’s admiration for Mourinho and Newcastle’s quest for Champions League success. Both sides will bring their best to the pitch, driven by the stakes of the competition.
