Sport
Newcastle United’s summer has been one undercut by a lot of fear and uncertainty. Boardroom changes, a possible approach from England to replace Gareth Southgate as coach of the national team and slow progress when it comes to major signings have all caused some unrest amongst the fanbase.
But nothing has stirred these feelings up quite like idea of star midfielder Bruno Guimarães leaving the club. Although it has never come close, the idea has lingered for some time. The Brazilian signed a new long-term contract at the club in October, becoming Newcastle’s highest earner. The most crucial detail of the deal was a release clause believed to be valued at around £100m. As soon as that was confirmed, supporters, rather understandably, began to panic. What did this mean? Surely Guimarães was looking at a future away from Newcastle? It was more nuanced than that.
Of course Guimarães and his agents had a plan that involved the clause, but it also benefitted Newcastle too. It guaranteed a minimum value that, if activated, would ensure a huge profit. The fact the clause expired a week before the Profit and Sustainability deadline was not an accident either; while Newcastle never wanted to sell Guimarães, the need to match his ambitions every year makes it difficult. They have made sure if he does go, it’ll be on their terms.
But now it appears the stress is over. There have been links with the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal, and although there are continuing rumours of a move from the former for a cheaper price, Guimarães’ own stance has never been so strong in terms of staying at Newcastle.
“I’m very happy to be starting another season with this club that has done so much for me since my first day here,” he wrote on X after captaining the team in his first appearance of pre-season in Japan.
“I’m glad to be back and more prepared than ever to have a brilliant season and to help Newcastle reach the highest possible position!
“Another dream has come true! Being the captain of this team is everything I’ve always dreamed of but never imagined! We’re in this together, and I’m sure I’ll be more dedicated than ever to this badge.”
Signing Sandro Tonali last summer should have taken the pressure off Guimarães. His records of never missing a Newcastle victory and helping them win every time he scores still stand now, two and a half years on from his signing from Lyon. Tonali was brought in to offer a similar ability to dictate football matches, and there were glimpses of a strong partnership before the Italian’s gambling ban.
Tonali’s arrival was also part of the contingency plan; once he settled in, he would soon take responsibility from Guimarães. The fact he looks set to stay for another year, allowing for Tonali’s reintegration thus season, is huge for Newcastle.
And yet, for all the talk and the fear, there’s been nothing from Guimarães himself at any point to suggest he is looking to leave Newcastle. His family are settled, his dad becoming something of a local celebrity and he has had two children in the area. But he also seems able to tap into an understanding of the fans that other players, regardless of where they’re from, have been able to. Not only is he probably Newcastle’s greatest ever import, but his passion makes him even more special for the Toon Army who love him so much.
Manchester City could yet come in for him and if he has a decision to make, Newcastle will be on the back foot. In the long run, especially if they fail to return to the Champions League this season. But for now, he remains the beating heart of the team, and nobody is prouder of that than him.
