Jose Mourinho appointment could hold key to keeping Anthony Gordon at Newcastle United
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Credit: Imago Wed 15 April 2026 17:30, UK Jose Mourinho could mean so much more to Newcastle United than simply replacing Eddie Howe this summer.The 63-year-old, formerly of Chelsea, Man United and Tottenham, is currently plying his trade at Benfica, where he has won 24 of his 40 matches in charge so far.Mourinho, who has won two Champions League titles as a manager, has long been linked with a return to the Premier League, and that could finally happen amid admiration from St James’ Park [talkSPORT].Howe’s future remains under massive scrutiny ahead of the summer window, and that will not be supporters’ only major worry, with the Magpies sinking further and further into a disappointing 2025-26 campaign. 👔 Newcastle Manager News 👔 Get the inside track on the St James’ Park dugout with real-time updates on shortlisted candidates, live betting market shifts, and key PIF boardroom decisions. VISIT THE MANAGER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Jose Mourinho is a huge fan of Anthony GordonMourinho has witnessed first-hand just how dangerous Newcastle’s No.10 can be to play against, when the Magpies went up against Benfica in the Champions League back in October.The 25-year-old, who is linked with Arsenal and Liverpool, scored and assisted as Howe’s side claimed a 3-0 win at St James’ Park, and the manager was seriously impressed by the player’s individual display.In fact, the two shared an emotional moment at the full-time whistle, with Mourinho telling the electric winger, “You’re too much,” a huge vote of confidence from one of the world’s most famous managers.Anthony Gordon vs BenficaStats [FotMob]Minutes played85Goals1Assists1Chances created1Shot accuracy25% (1/4)Successful dribbles33% (1/3)Recoveries8Ground duels won54% (7/13)Fouls won3In response [BBC Sport], Gordon said: “It is a big compliment for me because as a kid, he was my favourite manager in the world.
It’s quite weird because he was quite a defensive manager.“But I just love the way, even then, the bench was getting up [to celebrate]. He really creates a team environment – it’s like us against the world.
I recognise that from my own game, so it was a big compliment.”Which clubs are interested in signing Newcastle’s No.10?Mick Brown told Football Insider that Liverpool have set their sights on Gordon, but given his links with Everton, that could make any future deal rather tricky, at least for his own conscience.Mikel Arteta’s side are also said to be keeping tabs on the England international, and quite a battle would emerge in the summer if both clubs attempted to secure his signature.Were the Magpies to hire Mourinho, though, they may not have to worry about losing the 25-year-old, who has netted 34 per cent of the team’s Champions League goals this season.It would be incredibly difficult to replace Gordon, so if the club’s hierarchy wants any chance of keeping him on the books at St James’ Park, appointing Mourinho could be their best bet. Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Newcastle Insider Access Get the full story from St James’ Park and Darsley Park with our dedicated expert hubs: Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Tyneside.