Jose Mourinho has paid a touching tribute to his late mentor Sir Bobby Robson, speaking with deep affection about the legendary Englishman’s legacy as he prepares to lead Benfica into their Champions League encounter with Newcastle United.
“Bobby is a legend here. He loved this club. He gave everything to this club. He would be so happy with that [League] Cup victory,” Mourinho said, his words carrying both admiration and nostalgia ahead of his return to St James’ Park.
Jose Mourinho honours Sir Bobby Robson
Now 62, Mourinho’s connection to Robson runs deep. The Portuguese tactician began his journey into top-level management under Robson’s guidance, serving as his assistant at Sporting Lisbon, Porto, and later Barcelona.
It was during those formative years that Mourinho developed his famed tactical acumen — and an enduring respect for the man who gave him his first big opportunity.
Their bond transcended football. Robson not only mentored Mourinho professionally but also shaped his outlook on leadership, humility, and resilience — traits that have come to define the “Special One” throughout his illustrious career.
Mourinho, who now manages Benfica, returns to St James’ Park for the first time since 2021, a venue steeped in emotion given his ties to Robson and the club’s passionate fanbase.
Robson himself managed Newcastle United from 1999 to 2004, guiding the Magpies to Champions League football and rekindling pride on Tyneside.
To this day, he remains one of the most beloved figures in the club’s history — a sentiment Mourinho deeply understands.
The former Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Manchester United boss also praised Eddie Howe for restoring Newcastle’s competitive edge. In many ways, Mourinho’s admiration mirrors Robson’s spirit — both men drawn to footballing institutions where passion runs through every blade of grass.