Anthony Gordon has lifted the lid on a memorable interaction with Jose Mourinho, following Newcastle United’s comprehensive 3-0 triumph over Benfica in the Champions League. The celebrated manager, known for his tactical acumen, took a moment to commend the Magpies’ young winger.
Newcastle notched their second Champions League victory of the season with aplomb on Tuesday evening. Gordon was instrumental, finding the net alongside a brace from fellow teammate Harvey Barnes. This performance follows Gordon’s continued international form, having impressed for England with a goal and an assist against Latvia.
Post-match, Gordon was observed exchanging words with Benfica coach Mourinho. The content of their conversation was revealing: “He said, ‘You’re too much,’ which for me, is a huge compliment as I’ve admired him since I was a kid,” Gordon shared. “It’s peculiar because he was known for defensive tactics, yet I always admired how he fostered an ‘us against the world’ mentality. That resonated with me, so receiving such a compliment was significant.”
Mourinho didn’t stop there; he publicly extolled Gordon alongside three other Newcastle stalwarts, acknowledging the team’s prowess at large. “The opening goal came from a swift counter where [Amar] Dedic was outdone by the match’s standout player, Anthony Gordon, on his diagonal run.”
He continued, “This speaks volumes about Newcastle’s level. The scoreline might suggest dominance, and though it felt unfairly lopsided given our strong first-half, Newcastle thrived in a stadium brimming with atmosphere. They posed consistent set-piece threats, demonstrating physicality we struggled to match, despite crafting several chances ourselves.”
Mourinho reflected on a pivotal moment: “We had a magnificent strike from [Dodi] Lukebakio that hit the post before they scored, so I maintain that the half-time score didn’t mirror the game.”
In a nod to Newcastle’s depth, Mourinho remarked, “In the second half, conceding a set piece was costly. Once that second goal went in, the disparity in team characteristics became apparent. Newcastle boasts a squad with more intensity, speed, and a quartet of rapid wingers. Their ability to interchange not one, but two dynamic wingers midway through the half left us vulnerable.”