Newcastle United have had a couple of seasons to remember in the Premier League. Ever since their takeover went through in 2021, Eddie Howe has assembled a squad capable of challenging for the top four on a consistent basis. One of the first signings of the new era was that of Bruno Guimaraes from Olympique Lyon. The Brazilian defensive midfielder has established himself as one of the best in his position in the Premier League with his performances putting him right up there with the likes of Man City star Rodri and Arsenal ace Declan Rice.
The 26-year-old is one of Eddie Howe’s most trusted players. There is a stark difference in the team quality when the Brazilian plays and when he doesn’t, further underlining his importance. Most of what Guimaraes does on a football field goes under the radar except for the odd long-range striker that gets him a goal.
Incidentally, both Man City and Arsenal have expressed interest in signing the €85m rated midfielder for quite some time now. Despite having Rodri and Rice in their respective ranks, there has been immense interest in Guimaraes, which is a little difficult to comprehend. After all, the Brazilian is not going to accept being second fiddle at either club.
Guimaraes, se queda?
Speaking about his future, Guimaraes has made it quite clear that he has no intention of leaving the Magpies this summer or anytime soon, claiming that he wants to make history with the club, “I’m very happy at Newcastle, I never said I would like to leave! I always said I would like to put my name in the club’s history. I can’t wait to do my best for the club and the fans.”
In an age where players constantly want to keep jumping clubs, Guimaraes is a welcome throwback to the olden days of football. He identifies the potential that this talented Newcastle United team have and is aware of the legacy he can build for himself if he continues in the same vein.
If Guimaraes was to join City, say hypothetically, he would be yet another name in a star-studded squad at Pep Guardiola’s disposal. Of course, it gives him the opportunity for quicker success in his career as the Manchester Blues are definitely in a better position than the Magpies to win trophies in a short time.
Whereas, at St. James Park, Bruno Guimaraes is adored. He is treated like the superstar that he is. All this is likely to play in the player’s mind before making a decision.
What does this mean for Man City?
Well, actually not much. Manchester City have Rodri. The Spaniard is without a doubt the best in the world in his position. A case can be made for the Euro 2024 winner to win the Ballon d’Or this upcoming season. Thus, Pep Guardiola doesn’t need Guimaraes.
With Julian Alvarez’s impending exit, Pep might be tempted to find a forward who can replace the Argentinian World Cup winner. Finding someone as versatile in the market might be close to impossible.
The good thing for Man City is they have a good enough squad as is to compete for all the trophies in the upcoming season. Only time will tell us if they make any more signings to bolster their options or choose to persist with whatever they have.
