José Mourinho was mentioned in the list of options for the Newcastle bench. The Magpies fired Steve Bruce shortly after the Arab takeover and are looking to make a splash with their next hiring. But the Special One plans to stay in Rome for a few seasons.
Mourinho talked to Sky Sport ahead of the European Conference League match with Bodo/Glimt: “The Newcastle links? I have decided that I will not leave my guys for any reason. I signed a three-year contract and nobody can force me to depart from Roma before its end. There is growing concern here, but this team has become an indestructible family. A negative result can not affect it, and nobody is clamoring for more playing time.”
Mourinho remains upbeat despite the recent losses: “We are happy for what we are building. We are putting together something that will be important down the line. I am glad I did not talk about the referee after Juventus-Roma. I prefer to focus on things I can control. The people harped on the PK and the possible goal, but there would have been a lot more to discuss. I prefer it that way, so our family and squad can keep growing.”
While Mourinho will not move to Newcastle, former Roma coach Paulo Fonseca is among the candidates, Fabrizio Romano reports. The Giallorossi gaffer also provided an update on Nicolò Zaniolo, who left the last game in the first half due to a knee problem. He stated that the player’s sensations should be respected given his injury history and that he has good chances to be ready for the upcoming Napoli clash.
Newcastle decision on new manager will take some days. Paulo Fonseca would be open to accept and excited for this opportunity after Spurs job chance collapsed at final stages last summer – but Newcastle are in talks with many candidates. ⚪️ #NUFC
Race still open for Magpies job.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 21, 2021