Report: Could Mourinho Return to the Premier League with Newcastle?

José Mourinho is no stranger to the Premier League spotlight, and recent reports from The Guardian suggest he could be eyeing a new managerial role in England—specifically, at Newcastle United. Currently managing Fenerbahce in Turkey, the Portuguese tactician has reportedly set his sights on Newcastle as his preferred destination should Eddie Howe’s position become available. But how viable is this potential move? And what does it mean for Newcastle’s ambitions under Saudi ownership?

Mourinho’s Turkish Discontent: A Springboard Back to England?

Mourinho’s tenure in Turkey hasn’t been smooth sailing. After a heated outburst following Fenerbahce’s 3-2 victory over Trabzonspor, Mourinho made his frustrations with Turkish football well known. “Nobody abroad wants to watch the Turkish league,” he vented. “They have the Premier League, they have the French league, they have the German league… Why should they see this? It’s too grey, it’s too dark, smells bad. But that’s my job, and I will give everything to my job, to my club.”

This recent tirade hasn’t gone unnoticed. Mourinho, who joined Fenerbahce just last summer after parting ways with Roma, has been handed a one-game ban and fined by the Turkish football federation. These signs of frustration suggest a manager unsettled and perhaps ready for another challenge—one that a high-profile Premier League club like Newcastle could offer.

Connections with Newcastle and a Hint of Tension in Howe’s Reign

Mourinho has reportedly maintained contact with Newcastle’s chairman, Yasir al-Rumayyan, following a social meeting at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix in March. This connection could serve as a pathway for Mourinho’s ambitions, especially if Newcastle’s owners feel Howe isn’t fulfilling their Champions League aspirations. While Howe’s position appears stable, buoyed by recent victories over Chelsea and Arsenal, long-term job security remains uncertain. The Saudi owners, with their lofty ambitions, may still harbour doubts.

Adding to Howe’s challenges, Newcastle has seen significant internal changes, with the departure of directors Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi. Tensions have reportedly risen with new sporting director Paul Mitchell, who joined in July. Such shifts within the club’s hierarchy could make Mourinho’s appointment a tempting option for Newcastle’s management should they deem a change necessary to push the club further up the Premier League standings.

Newcastle’s European Push and Financial Constraints

Despite recent victories, Newcastle’s league position of 11th is not where the owners expect them to be. Following five Premier League games without a win, Howe’s side only returned to form last Saturday with a crucial win against Arsenal. This lacklustre start has raised questions, especially given the financial challenges the club faced last summer.

In a bid to comply with profitability and sustainability rules, Newcastle sold several young talents, including academy star Elliot Anderson, now playing for Nottingham Forest. Howe’s disappointment was evident: “Elliot is a sale we didn’t want to make. I don’t understand the rationale behind PSR rules incentivising the sale of academy products.” With European qualification in their sights, Newcastle’s financial limitations could be a significant hurdle for Howe, making Mourinho’s potential arrival even more intriguing as the club navigates this complex landscape.

Will Mourinho Make His Premier League Return with Newcastle?

At 61, Mourinho’s hunger for success remains undiminished, and his ambitions for a Premier League return are apparent. He’s not only made his desires clear but has also reached out to intermediaries to stay updated on Newcastle’s managerial situation. His experience, having managed top clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham, could bring an aura of prestige and a wealth of knowledge to Newcastle—a club aiming to establish itself as a Premier League powerhouse under its ambitious ownership.

Yet, the question remains: would Mourinho’s style and personality align with Newcastle’s current trajectory under Howe, who emphasises a more patient, long-term approach? While Mourinho’s tactical expertise and charisma are undeniable, his history of polarising dressing rooms and management could pose risks.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Newcastle fans, Mourinho’s potential arrival is likely to spark a mix of excitement and concern. While some supporters may relish the idea of a proven winner taking the helm, others might worry about the stability and harmony that Howe has brought to the club. Mourinho’s track record is impressive, but his tenure at clubs often involves drama and conflict, as seen in his turbulent spells at Manchester United and Tottenham.

One thing is certain: Newcastle’s ambitions to join the Champions League elite would receive an immediate boost in reputation with Mourinho at the helm. The fans, however, remain divided—some may hope for Howe to build on his progress, while others see Mourinho as the kind of statement signing that signals Newcastle’s intent on the European stage. Only time will tell if Newcastle’s hierarchy will take the gamble on Mourinho or stay the course with Howe’s vision.