When José Mourinho, the 62‑year‑old head coach of Sport Lisboa e Benfica, sat down with HaytersTV on October 20, 2025, he couldn’t hide his admiration for Newcastle United Football Club and its manager Eddie Howe. The 11‑minute interview, filmed in London, touched on the Magpies’ recent Carabao Cup triumph, the legacy of Sir Bobby Robson, and the “steadying hand” of the Public Investment Fund since its 2021 takeover.
Historical ties between Mourinho and Newcastle
Mourinho’s connection to the north‑east runs deeper than a passing compliment. In the late 1990s he served as translator and assistant to Sir Bobby Robson at PSV Eindhoven, a period that shaped his tactical philosophy. Robson, who later took over Newcastle in 1999, remained a mentor figure until his death in 2009. Mourinho often credits the late English manager for teaching him “how to speak football” – a phrase he revisited during the interview, saying, “Sir Bobby is a legend here and in England.”
What Mourinho said about the Cup win
Talking about the March 16, 2025 Carabao Cup final, Mourinho quoted the scoreline – “Newcastle beat Liverpool 2‑1 at Wembley – a massive moment after a 69‑year gap.” He added, “I was very happy. I know the cup isn’t the ultimate target, but it’s a stepping stone to the Champions League.” The manager emphasized that the victory “shows the club is moving in the right direction,” a sentiment echoed by the Magpies’ sporting director, Paul Mitchell, who was appointed on July 1, 2024.
Stability under Saudi‑backed ownership
Since the Public Investment Fund acquired an 80 % stake on October 7, 2021, Newcastle has avoided the turbulence seen at other newly‑funded clubs. Mourinho pointed out, “Many clubs with fresh money make a lot of wrong decisions. Newcastle, since the moment they had the new ownership, Eddie’s stability, they change sports directors for obvious reasons.” He noted the replacement of Dan Ashworth with Mitchell as evidence of strategic, not reactionary, planning.
Reactions from the football community
Fans on social media flooded the comments section of the HaytersTV YouTube upload. One Newcastle supporter wrote, “Never thought I’d hear Mourinho sing our praises – that’s huge!” Meanwhile, a Benfica‑focused blogger warned that Mourinho’s comments could “fuel a narrative that the Magpies are the dark horse in Group B.” Even Eddie Howe, when asked later by a local newspaper, simply replied, “We appreciate the respect. It motivates the squad.”
What’s at stake in the Champions League
The group‑stage match, set for October 22, 2025, at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon, marks Newcastle’s first appearance in the competition since the 2002‑03 season under Robson. Benfica, a five‑time European champion, will be looking to secure top spot, while Newcastle hopes to prove the Cup win wasn’t a fluke. A draw would keep both teams alive, but a loss could send the Magpies back to the Europa League.
Broader implications for English clubs
If Newcastle can translate its recent stability into consistent European performances, other Premier League teams with foreign backing may follow suit. Analysts from the Sports Business Journal argue that the “Saudi‑funded model” could become a blueprint, provided clubs maintain transparent governance. Mourinho’s endorsement, however, also raises questions about competitive balance – does backing by a state‑owned fund give an unfair edge?
Key facts
- Interview date: 20 Oct 2025, 19:29 UTC.
- Interview length: 11 minutes 9 seconds.
- Newcastle’s Carabao Cup win: 2‑1 vs Liverpool, 16 Mar 2025.
- Public Investment Fund ownership began: 7 Oct 2021.
- Champions League clash: 22 Oct 2025 at Estádio da Luz, Lisbon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How might Mourinho’s praise affect Newcastle’s morale?
A compliment from a manager of Mourinho’s stature can boost player confidence, especially ahead of a historic Champions League debut. The squad has already spoken about using the Cup win as motivation; Mourinho’s words add external validation, which often translates into higher intensity in training and on‑field focus.
What does the Public Investment Fund ownership mean for Newcastle’s future transfers?
The Saudi fund has pledged to invest €150 million over the next five years, targeting a stronger squad depth. While the club has already spent wisely on proven Premier League talent, the influx of capital could allow Newcastle to compete for marquee signings, provided they adhere to UEFA’s financial fair‑play regulations.
Why is the Carabao Cup win significant beyond the trophy?
Ending a 69‑year major‑trophy drought lifts a psychological barrier that had haunted the club for decades. It also signals to potential recruits that Newcastle is on an upward trajectory, making the Magpies a more attractive destination than they were during their relegation‑battle years.
Will Mourinho’s comments influence Benfica’s preparation?
Benfica’s coaching staff respect Mourinho but treat his remarks as pre‑match banter. Their focus remains on the tactical challenge posed by Eddie Howe’s high‑pressing system. Nonetheless, the interview adds a media narrative that could distract players, so the Portuguese side will likely reinforce discipline in the dressing room.
Yash Kumar
October 21, 2025 AT 22:30Mourinho’s hype feels overblown. Newcastle still lack depth in midfield. Yet occasional bursts could mask underlying flaws.