Bruno Guimaraes has revealed that his penalty heartbreak in the World Cup still stings.
In the round of 16 against Norway, the midfielder stepped up and fluffed his lines from 12 yards. The game was tied at 0-0 but a ruthless Erling Haaland brace dumped the five-time world champions out.
Brazil were resigned to an early exit and the aftermath centred around the penalty miss. Critics asked why Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior allowed Guimaraes to take the kick.
‘It’s a scar’ - Bruno Guimaraes
Ultimately, Brazil crashed out and this proved to be the last game Guimaraes played as a Newcastle United player. A few weeks to reflect on his career led to the 28-year-old desiring an Arsenal move.
Speaking to the Brazilian press pack on international duty, Guimaraes admitted the costly blunder still “pains” him a lot. He said: “It’s a scar. It still hurts me. It pains me a lot, but it’s part of football. If there was another penalty and it was assigned to me, I wouldn’t hide.
“I’d take it again a thousand times if I had to, because representing this shirt means everything to me. It’s always been the greatest dream of my life.”
Bruno Guimaraes reflects on Newcastle United
Guimaraes also opened up about his relationship with Newcastle. It remains to be seen whether the feeling remains mutual - with the former skipper returning to St James’ Park in November.
“Newcastle is a club with a beautiful history,” Guimaraes added. “I was the first captain to win a title there after 70 years, along with my teammates. So we left our mark on the club's history. I had been at the club for almost five years and I felt inside that I needed a new challenge.
“I was ready for it. I'm very grateful to the club for everything it has given me. Now, starting my career at Arsenal, starting well, starting with the right foot. As I said, it's a new responsibility and I really wanted to take this step.
“And focus, because, as you said, leaving a routine that I was already used to and starting a new one, it takes a little time, a little adaptation. But I think I'm doing well, I'm very happy and excited for the new challenges.”