Newcastle Attacker Calls Benfica Boss's Compliment 'A Big One' Following Commanding 3-0 Victory
Newcastle United forward Anthony Gordon expressed profound gratitude after receiving praise from legendary manager José Mourinho following the Magpies’ dominant 3-0 victory over Benfica in the UEFA Champions League. Gordon, who was instrumental in the win at St. James' Park, described the veteran Portuguese coach’s words as a "big compliment."
The 24-year-old England international opened the scoring-marking his fourth goal in three Champions League games this season-and also contributed the assist for the team’s third goal. The convincing performance on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, thrilled the crowd of over 52,000 Newcastle supporters.
A Personal Connection to the 'Special One'
While plaudits were abundant for Gordon after the match, it was the conversation with the current Benfica boss that left the deepest impression. Mourinho, known as the "Special One," sought out the former Everton player for a chat at the final whistle.
When asked by the media what the opposing manager had said, Gordon revealed, "He said 'You're too much'," adding that the remark carried immense significance for him. Gordon explained the compliment was particularly meaningful because of his admiration for Mourinho. "As a kid, he was my favourite manager in the world growing up," he stated.
Despite acknowledging Mourinho’s reputation as a more "defensive manager," Gordon appreciated the coach’s unique ability to foster a strong team environment, noting the collective spirit he inspires: "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." He added that even from any top-level coach, such praise "means an awful lot."
Reflecting on Team Performance and New Partnerships
The victory elevated Newcastle to seventh place in the Champions League table after securing six points from their opening three games. Gordon broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute by converting Jacob Murphy’s cross. Later, after substitute Harvey Barnes had scored the second goal, Gordon was the architect of Barnes's second goal and the team’s third.
Newcastle manager Eddie Howe commended his wingers' efforts. Howe noted, “I thought both our wingers that started the game did really well. It was great to see them combine for the first goal, that's a really pleasing sight." He praised Gordon specifically for playing "very direct" and being "excellent" athletically, putting in a major effort both with and without the ball.
Gordon himself also praised the seamless partnership he has formed with the £69 million Germany attacker, Nick Woltemade, who was key in the build-up to the third goal. Gordon confessed he was initially "unsure of his game style" but concluded the partnership "has been unbelievable," praising Woltemade's vision for "the little passes I do round the corner."