Bruno Guimaraes believes he helped “rebuild” Newcastle United in his four-and-a-half-year spell at St James’ Park.
The Brazilian became the face of the Saudi-backed project when he joined in January 2022. Right up until his exit last month, Guimaraes was arguably the most popular player among Newcastle fans.
He helped the team secure two Champions League qualifications and, as captain, lifted the Carabao Cup. Guimaraes described himself as an adopted Geordie but disappointed Toon supporters by jumping ship last month.
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Bruno Guimaraes redemption?
A debate has emerged about whether Guimaraes deserves the same disdain as Alexander Isak or Sandro Tonali. Turning 29 in November, the midfielder has made no secret that he left to win major honours.
Guimaraes may have won back some of those Newcastle fans who turned. Last weekend, he scored a first goal for Arsenal against Sunderland before taunting the home crowd.
A “small club” celebration preceded further mocking on social media. Fresh comments have now emerged from his native country - reinforcing why he left the Magpies.
“I spent almost five years at Newcastle,” Guimaraes told ESPN Brasil. “I believe I helped rebuild the club. I arrived at a more difficult time in the club’s history, from my point of view. With my family, I decided to try something new.
“I am very happy with my opportunity here at Arsenal. Now it’s about continuing to work. I am very happy to start on the right foot in my first official game. Winning the title was very important. “It’s a very strong squad, great players, I think that’s the intention, to fight for everything and we’re going for it.”
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‘We did not want’ - Ross Wilson
Toon sporting director Ross Wilson admitted the club did not want to lose Guimaraes when assessing the summer window. He told reporters: “We did not want to lose Bruno Guimaraes. It was really disappointing that we got to that place in the end, albeit we were happy where we got to in terms of numbers (the fee).
“That was not part of our plan. Everything else that happened during the window was part of the plan.”