Bruno Guimarães Opens Up on Pep Guardiola Praise and Summer Links to Manchester City
Despite heavy speculation linking Bruno Guimarães with a move to Manchester City in the summer, the highly anticipated transfer never materialized. The Brazilian midfielder, now captain of Newcastle United, has revealed insights into his connection with Pep Guardiola and reflected on his admiration for City.
City’s Missed Opportunity
Back in June, reports suggested that Manchester City viewed Guimarães as overpriced due to his £100 million release clause. The club reportedly considered a move only if Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, or Matheus Nunes had left during the transfer window.
Journalist Ben Jacobs claimed that City would have pursued Guimarães if Newcastle were open to selling him for around £80 million, especially after his release clause expired on June 25. However, by August, City’s chances dwindled as Newcastle prioritized keeping their star man, with insufficient time to find a replacement.
Bruno’s Rise at Newcastle
Now serving as Newcastle’s captain, Guimarães has been instrumental in the Magpies’ midfield as they sit eighth in the league. Reflecting on his journey, he told Globo Esporte:
“I believe that at my club, I am an idol, and I have a lot of respect. I am the captain of Newcastle… Playing, being an idol, being captain is something wonderful. I really like Newcastle.”
Despite expressing loyalty to Newcastle, he acknowledged the significance of City’s interest:
“Having Manchester City’s suggestions shows that I am at a high level… [Pep] Guardiola likes my football. We have spoken once… I praised his work, he praised my work, but it was nothing more than that.”
Guimarães Impresses Against City
Guimarães delivered a standout performance in Newcastle’s recent 1-1 draw against Manchester City at St. James’ Park. Playing as the holding midfielder in a trio with Joelinton and Sandro Tonali, he showcased his technical brilliance:
- Minutes Played: 90
- Accurate Passes: 33/41
- Key Passes: 1
- Tackles: 3
- Interceptions: 2
- Dribbles Completed: 4/4
His incisive through ball led to the penalty that brought Newcastle back into the game, further demonstrating his value as a playmaker.
Guardiola’s High Praise
Guardiola has long admired Guimarães, calling him an “exceptional holding midfielder” in comments via City’s official website last season. The City boss highlighted his versatility and aggression, saying:
“He is aggressive, with the ball or without the ball… a real, complete holding midfielder since being at Lyon and now at a club who want to grow up and up.”
City’s Need for a Midfield Dynamo
With Rodri’s injury exposing a gap in City’s midfield this season, Guimarães could have been the ideal solution. The Sky Blues have struggled in his absence, losing four games and drawing one, raising questions about whether the club missed a vital opportunity.
Future Possibilities
As Manchester City assess their midfield options, speculation about reigniting interest in Guimarães could surface during the January transfer window or in the summer of 2025. For now, the 27-year-old seems content at Newcastle, where he continues to thrive as their midfield lynchpin.
The question remains: will Pep Guardiola push harder to bring this “exceptional” talent to the Etihad in the near future?
