Jose Mourinho reveals his 'huge respect' for Rafa Benitez '“ and recalls their previous feuds

The pair – who have both managed Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Chelsea –have had a number of public spats since they arrived in England more than a decade ago.

However, Mourinho has spoken of his "respect" for Newcastle United's manager ahead of Saturday evening's Premier League game.

"I don't think the rivalry was with Rafael, it was more between our clubs than between us," said Manchester United's manager.

"We are managers from the same generation. We came to England in the same season – 2004-05.

"We were both successful in European competitions – not many have won Champions League and Europa League, and we are some of the few managers who did it.

"Of course, between Liverpool and Chelsea, we had matches and rivalry, and it happens.

"But I have huge respect for him, for his talent, for his career, and I want to believe he feels the same."