Published: 21:53, 20 October 2025 | Updated: 21:53, 20 October 2025

Jose Mourinho has revealed that he spoke to the bronze bust of Sir Bobby Robson when he walked into St James’ Park on Monday night - and has told his Benfica players to enjoy a ‘beautiful’ atmosphere unlike those at London stadiums.

The 62-year-old was assistant to Robson at Barcelona having previously been his translator in Portugal, but he turned down the chance to be his No.2 at Newcastle.

However, Mourinho’s affection for Robson and the club was clear when he spoke on the eve of Tuesday night's Champions League tie.

‘At this stadium, people don’t come here to watch the game, they come to play alongside the team,’ he said. ‘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.’

He added: ‘I exchanged a few words with Bobby as I came back here today. It’s a great emotion. When...