European giants will fear Tottenham in Champions League last-16, says Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho insists no team will want to face Tottenham in the Champions League last-16 despite their shaky start to the season.
Spurs finished second in their group to Bayern Munich meaning they are set to face a European powerhouse in the first knockout round, such as Barcelona, Juventus or Paris Saint-Germain.
A best case scenario for Tottenham would see them paired with Valencia or RB Leipzig in the last-16 draw, which takes place on Monday following the completion of the group stage earlier this week.
Finishing second in their group makes Tottenham’s last-16 tie challenging, but Mourinho is not fearing anyone.
He said: ”I think from the teams that finished second, I think the teams that finished first will wish they don’t play against us.
“We are one of the strongest teams from the second group.
“I know we are a country that goes through a crazy period [over Christmas] which many, many times leaves marks on players and teams and conditions, but by the end of February I will understand my players better, they will understand me better.
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“We have two more months of work together. I think so, we will be much more ready.”
Tottenham have made a flying start under Mourinho since he replaced Mauricio Pochettino as manager last month, with four wins from the six matches he has overseen.
Spurs’ only defeats have come against Manchester United and a dead rubber Champions League game at Bayern Munich on Wednesday, with both clubs already qualified, which saw Harry Kane and Dele Alli left at home.