Newcastle United have arrived in Spain for a pre-season training camp at La Manga.
While Newcastle’s squad has been boosted by the returns of international players this week, one major departure has been confirmed, and another could be set to follow.
On the eve of the squad flying out to Spain, it was revealed that head coach Eddie Howe would be stepping down from his position as head coach after almost five years. It was then confirmed that club captain Bruno Guimaraes was not part of the travelling squad amid transfer interest from Arsenal.
Bruno Guimaraes (inset) wants to leave Newcastle United.placeholder image
Bruno Guimaraes (inset) wants to leave Newcastle United. | Getty Images
Guimaraes has been on an extended break after representing Brazil at the World Cup. It has been suggested that the plan was for Guimaraes to return to the training ground on Friday before travelling, but those plans have since changed.
Prior to the news of his departure, Eddie Howe said: “The details I don’t actually know, but I don’t see any reason why that wouldn’t be the case [Guimaraes being back on Friday].”
This was also backed up by Newcastle winger Harvey Barnes, who was clearer in his understanding of the situation: “[Guimaraes] is back in on Friday, so it'll be good to see him.
“He's the captain of the football club, so it'll be exciting to have him back. You want to keep your best players, of course you do. He's a big part of what we've got going on here. I can't really say any more on that. It's just good to see him on Friday and I'm excited.”
But this is not how the situation has played out. Instead it is now being claimed that there is a plan for Guimaraes to join up with the squad in Spain over the weekend. This is understood to be an option agreed by the club given the 28-year-old has been on holiday in Brazil.
But in reality, it just buys more time for Arsenal to make a move with no guarantee Guimaraes actually turns up in Spain ready for training on Monday.
And it will be an instant challenge for incoming head coach Matthias Jaissle to address, as he is expected to join up with the squad on Saturday as the club prepares an official announcement regarding Howe’s exit and the appointment of his replacement.
The Gazette understands that Guimaraes has told the club he wants to leave and a move will likely happen once Arsenal officially table an offer. It will be another blow in what has been a damaging 12 months for the club on the back of a Carabao Cup win and Champions League qualification.
Since then, the Magpies have lost Alexander Isak, Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, Howe and now likely Guimaraes. While they have recouped significant fees in the process, the incomings, manager included, are all young and unproven at Premier League level.
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