Newcastle United head coach Matthias Jaissle has broken his silence on Bruno Guimaraes' departure, revealing the Brazilian had already decided to leave before they could have a proper conversation. The £75m sale to Arsenal has been confirmed, and the search for a new captain is underway.
Jaissle's First Comments
Speaking at his first press conference as Toon boss in La Manga, Jaissle said: "I met him quickly, but the decision was already made. It was a nice conversation. He's a fantastic player, so it's tough."
"We need to deal with it, and we trust the players that are here already. But we will also see some changes."
Transfer Plans
Bruno's exit takes Newcastle's summer sales to around £250m, giving Jaissle funds to strengthen before the window closes. At least one full-back is needed, with Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall the only senior options, while a replacement for Guimaraes and possibly another midfielder are also required.
Jaissle added: "I'm only one day here but I have the squad mapping and I have clear ideas. But I also want to know the players here, I want to give them a chance to see if they can show up. It's always a new challenge for the players too."
"We can wait. But we have the capacity do something in the market (sign players this window). Our sporting director is aware of that, so I'm sure when the season starts we will see some new faces."
Further Exits Possible
Asked about further departures, Jaissle said: "It would be unfair to judge them now after one session, so they can show up, like I just said, and we have still time."
"Not everyone will be happy, it's normal in football, one or the other wants to leave as well, but again, we have time. First, let me come here and do the job, let's work all together and then we'll make the decisions."
