Newcastle United didn't need or want the two seconds from Bruno Guimaraes that showcased to the world, again, what a special player he is. The transfer noise around the Magpies captain has been an unhelpful distraction over the last week, with the player's representatives holding talks with Arsenal over a potential summer move. Release clauses have been mentioned too.
Arsenal's Pursuit and Newcastle's Stance
A bid has been put in and rejected with Newcastle insisting he is 'not for sale' at any price, but that hasn't deterred the Gunners who are expected to continue their pursuit of the 28-year-old. The noise, if anything, is only getting louder, and while there have been reports that Newcastle hold an option to extend his contract to 2029, that isn't going to quieten it.
Guimaraes' World Cup Heroics
Guimaraes is Newcastle's talisman, but is also now swiftly becoming the same for Brazil. With their World Cup last 32 clash with Japan on the brink of extra time, he produced a moment of real quality to help them win the game. Picking the ball up on the edge of the Japan box, with several defenders in front of him, he took his time. One second. Two seconds. Just enough to draw the space. Then came a beautifully crafted through pass to Gabriel Martinelli, delivered with exquisite precision and weight.
It looked simple. It wasn't. It was the perfect example of a player at the top of his game executing in a high pressure, high stakes moment when his team needs it. Calmness and poise, not necessarily words automatically associated with Bruno whose energy, enthusiasm and drive are among his strongest attributes. But he has much more to his game than that, as he is showing at this tournament. That's now four assists in four games for a player who is just getting better and better. Pele is the only Brazilian who has created more goals for his country at a World Cup than Guimaraes.
Standout Statistics
It wasn't just that pass, that assist, that saw him stand out. According to Fotmob, many of his stats against Japan were also outstanding. Overall, he created four chances, had four shots, had a 0.32 xA, completed 92 per cent of his passes and won all of his ground duels. While he may still not get the headlines that Vinicius Jr and others receive, he is the heartbeat of Selecao.
Guimaraes' Post-Match Comments
Guimaraes spoke afterwards, praising Arsenal forward Martinelli for his last-gasp goal. Newcastle will want to ensure the two aren't playing together in north London next season. “It’s the team spirit, the group spirit,” he said. “It’s great that the player who came off the bench secured our qualification. Martinelli is sensational, I’m very happy.”
Guimaraes also took to Instagram, as usual, after the game to post his thanks, writing: "A game with the face of our country! In will, race and emotion. And as a good Brazilian, we never give up! I love being Brazilian. Proud of us! One more step towards our dream. Thanks for the support, Brazilian fans! Let's go Brazil! I Love You Jesus. Thank you for everything."
Newcastle's Crucial Summer
Bruno headed into the World Cup off the back of an impressive season in the black and white. When he was struck down by a hamstring injury midway through the campaign, it is no coincidence that Newcastle's season stuttered. Arsenal may return with a bid in excess of £65 million for the brilliant Brazilian, but Newcastle need to hold firm and need to keep hold of their star man. It's the most important bit of business they can do this summer.
