Bruno Guimaraes has high respect for Barcelona, but he backs Newcastle United to battle hard. Their midfield is always up for a tough fight and wants to "prove it in the Champions League."
‘The midfield is almost everything’
In Pedri, **Barcelona**have one of the most highly rated midfielders in the global game. However, Guimaraes is also part a respected midfield unit, enjoying work with Sandro Tonali and Joelinton.
“I think I'm enjoying a lot to play his side. I think we complete each other. I think he's enjoyed to play my side as well. So we have a very good connection with Joe as well. I think we have one of the best midfield in the Premier League and now we have to prove it in the Champions League as well.”
Joelinton arrived at the club as a striker from Hoffenheim, but he has found a home in the middle of the park with his physicality and work rate. He, Tonali, and Guimaraes are routinely beating up on opposition midfields across England and hope to establish themselves as a force across the continent.
“I think the midfield is almost everything for the club because we have to attack, we have to defend, we have to build up, we have to save the balls in line, we have to score as well. We have as a team everything going to the midfield and then it is really nice to share the pitch with good players.”
The consistency of the Brazilian is a massive element of their success. He has now appeared in 67 consecutive games for the club, the longest streak for any outfield player in the history of Newcastle. He talked about how he has managed to stay free from knocks and niggles and perform on the pitch.
“I don’t know how! I just try to play my football and to be the best Bruno possible for the team. Try to help my teammates get the ball in every moment. Never hide myself for a game. This is my biggest attribute to the team.”
Even though the midfield unit impresses, goals win games. Alexander Isak has made his debut for **Liverpool**after a £125 million move, but the fans are fawning over his record-breaking replacement. Nick Woltemade scored against **Wolves**on his first start for the club, starting strong in England.
“I like it. He's impressing me in the trainings as well. He’s very young. We have seen he was not used to the Premier League pace. He got cramps in 45 minutes. But it was nice. I'm very happy for him. He's calling his debut is uh a moment to have me remember for him. I hope this continues, but he's showing quality in training as well.”