Jose Mourinho has recently expressed his lack of enjoyment in managing at St James’ Park during his tenure in the Premier League, citing a dismal record as a visiting manager. The 61-year-old departed AS Roma as manager and is now exploring new opportunities after spending two-and-a-half years in Rome.
Speculation has linked Mourinho with a surprising return to English football, with Old Trafford and St James’ Park mentioned as potential destinations. Speaking to Rio Ferdinand on the Five podcast, Mourinho reflected on his managerial career, discussing both the adversaries he relished facing and the venues he found challenging.
Mourinho revealed, “When people discuss my rivalry with [Arsene] Wenger, we had our heated exchanges on the touchline and in words. But what truly brought me joy was defeating Arsenal every time we clashed, asserting Chelsea’s dominance. That’s what I relished.”
However, Mourinho admitted his dissatisfaction with managing games at Newcastle, where he struggled to secure victories. He recalled, “I didn’t enjoy playing at Newcastle because I rarely emerged victorious. Every visit to St James’ Park resulted in either a loss or a draw. I believe I only managed to win there once, maybe twice, out of ten encounters, whether with Chelsea, Manchester United, or Tottenham.”
While Mourinho did claim victory on his inaugural visit to St James’ Park in November 2004, guiding Chelsea to a 2-0 League Cup triumph over Newcastle, subsequent wins were scarce. It wasn’t until July 2020, amid Covid-19 restrictions, that his Tottenham side secured a 3-1 victory over Newcastle, albeit in an empty stadium.
In league matches at St James’ Park, Mourinho’s record stands at nine games played, with one win, four draws, and four defeats. Despite his initial successes in cup competitions, league encounters at Newcastle proved to be formidable challenges for the Portuguese manager.
Regarding speculation linking Mourinho to Newcastle United, former player Alan Shearer voiced his admiration for Mourinho’s illustrious career but expressed contentment with Eddie Howe’s role as manager. Shearer emphasized Howe’s achievements and the positive impact he has had on the club.
“He has had an amazing career, Jose,” remarked Shearer on the Rest is Football podcast. “Where he goes next, I’m not sure. But, no, I am very happy with Eddie Howe at Newcastle and the job he has done and the role he is doing.” Shearer’s sentiments reflect a sense of satisfaction with Howe’s leadership at Newcastle, despite Mourinho’s availability on the managerial market.
