Four Newcastle United players that must start v Man City
Bruno Guimaraes was linked with a move to Manchester City before the 2024 summer transfer window.
Pep Guardiola has admitted he is a “big fan” of Newcastle United skipper Bruno Guimaraes.
The Magpies are preparing to welcome Manchester City to Tyneside for a mammoth Premier League clash later today. Consecutive league defeats to West Ham United and Brentford have ramped up the pressure on the fixture, with Newcastle sitting 14th in the table.
City are flying after thrashing Liverpool 3-0 last time out and pose a daunting test to Eddie Howe and Co. An evening kick-off at this time of year means St James’ Park - providing Newcastle show up - will be at its raucous best under the lights.
‘A big fan’ - Pep Guardiola
Adding a side story to the fixture, Guardiola has noted his admiration for Toon skipper Guimaraes. This is not the first time he has done this, with the Spaniard praising Guimaraes before an FA Cup clash in 2024.
Man City were linked with the Brazilian heading into that summer transfer window. His £100million release clause was well-documented but Guimaraes ultimately stayed put.
Ahead of today’s game, Guardiola said about Guimaraes: “I’ve always been a big fan of Bruno. Since he was in Lyon, you start to realise that he is a special player. Newcastle made an incredible (signing).
“He’s an idol there. These players, when they play a lot, season by season, go to the national team, get better and better. I have always been a big fan of him.”
Bruno Guimaraes on Pep Guardiola praise
In an interview last year, “Of course, having Manchester City’s suggestions shows that I am at a high level, but it was nothing more than suggestions.
“I know that Guardiola likes my football, it is normal to have great coaches who admire your football. We have spoken once after the interview, I praised his work, he praised my work, but it was nothing more than that.”
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Eddie Howe on ‘special’ Bruno Guimaraes
When asked about his skipper last month, Howe told reporters: “Bruno, I’ve spoken about him many times, but the player and the person together is a very special thing. His will to win, his drive, his determination to be successful is there for us every day. His professionalism to prepare himself to play is of the highest level.”
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