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Topics: Jose Mourinho, Benfica, Newcastle United, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Football
Marcus Chan
Topics: Jose Mourinho, Benfica, Newcastle United, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Football
Jose Mourinho appeared to aim a dig at former clubs Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur ahead of Benfica's match against Newcastle United.
Last month, Mourinho returned to the dugout after being appointed as Benfica boss, three weeks after he was sacked by Turkish Super Lig side Fenerbahce.
On Tuesday night, Mourinho makes another trip back to England as Benfica take on Premier League side Newcastle in the UEFA Champions League at St. James' Park.
Last month, Mourinho returned to his former home, Stamford Bridge, but Benfica were beaten 1-0 by Chelsea.
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Speaking ahead of Tuesday night's clash against Newcastle, Mourinho appeared to aim a sly dig at his former clubs in London while praising the Magpies' atmosphere.
He said to the media: "At this stadium, people don’t come here to watch the game, they come to play alongside the team.
"This city has a totally different culture to London, and the big clubs like Chelsea, Tottenham and Arsenal. I love coming here to play. I’ve told my players, it’s beautiful, that it’s an extraordinary atmosphere in this stadium and in this city."
Mourinho added: "I exchanged a few words with Bobby (Sir Bobby Robson Statue) as I came back here today. It’s a great emotion. When I walk in here, I feel close to him."
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After expressing his love for the city and the club, Mourinho was asked whether he regrets not having the chance to take charge of Newcastle.
In response, the Portuguese said: "I don’t regret because I never had the chance to, I never said “no” to Newcastle United.
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"To be honest, now I don’t think they need a coach. I hope that they don’t need one in the next years, which means everything goes well for the club and for Eddie (Howe), which is what I wish."