After a challenging start, Newcastle United truly have an unbelievable captain in Bruno Guimaraes.
He was given the armband at the beginning of last season, but initially struggled. The captaincy appeared to be weighing Bruno Guimaraes down, as he endured a slow start to the 2024/25 season.
But the situation changed. He grew and grew as a leader, before ultimately guiding Newcastle United to Carabao Cup glory. He helped end the trophy drought, and could not hide his emotion when the final whistle went at Wembley.
Eddie Howe thinks Bruno has improved since becoming captain, and he truly is an inspirational figure at St James’ Park.
According to a new report from the Athletic, that was certainly the case behind the scenes while the Alexander Isak situation was going on over the summer.
Bruno Guimaraes and Alexander Isak celebrate during Newcastle United's Premier League game against Chelsea.
Photo by ANDY BUCHANAN/AFP via Getty Images
Bruno Guimaraes ‘restored order’ amid Alexander Isak saga
Newcastle’s summer was dominated by Isak wanting to join Liverpool. It was an extremely messy and uncomfortable saga, but one that ended with Isak joining Liverpool.
It could have been incredibly disruptive for the rest of the Newcastle United squad, but Bruno did not allow that to happen.
According to the Athletic, Bruno ‘restored order’ in the dressing room amid what was happening with Isak this summer.
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They report that the 27-year-old was ‘adamant’ that the club had enough talent within its ranks to respond to the Isak situation, with a source telling the Athletic that Bruno and his fellow Brazilian Joelinton have been ‘unbelievable’ behind the scenes.
The Magpies certainly have shown there is life after Isak. Even before a striker arrived, Howe’s side were playing well. They showed incredible team spirit, which was clearly galvanised by the captain.
What Bruno Guimaraes has said about Alexander Isak joining Liverpool
Ahead of Newcastle United vs Barcelona in the Champions League, Bruno has been on media duty.
He addressed the press on Wednesday afternoon, and was unsurprisingly asked about Isak’s transfer from St James’ Park to Anfield.
“I think football is business,” he said.
“I think the club made a choice. He’s gone and I wish him all the best. I am grateful for everything we achieved together.
“But this is not the time to look at the past, it’s time to look forward to the future.”
It was a very measured response from Bruno, who wants to look forwards rather than back. Isak and Bruno were magic together on Tyneside, but now the midfielder is focussed on having that spark with someone else.
He is a true leader, and a modern day Newcastle United legend.