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Bruno Guimaraes is returning to Newcastle United following his yellow card for Brazil against Columbia.
Just days after leading the Magpies to Carabao Cup success at Wembley, the midfielder travelled across the Atlantic to play in a World Cup qualifier. An emotional Guimaraes shed tears as Newcastle were crowned champions and he boozed until the early hours at Boxpark on Wembley Way.
However, he was always destined for an early flight alongside Toon teammate Joelinton. Brazil are aiming to wrap up their qualification for next year’s World Cup but waited until the 99th minute to edge out Columbia.
Vinicius Junior’s late winner sealed a 2-1 triumph, with Guimaraes labelling him the world’s best player on Instagram. But a yellow card for the Newcastle captain - who played 78 minutes - will now rule him out for Brazil’s game against Argentina on Wednesday morning.
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Both nations are on course to qualify but the rivalry runs deep - any game between Brazil and Argentina brings the continent to a standstill. Some quarters among Newcastle circles on social media have questioned whether the booking was a deliberate ploy to get Guimaraes fit and firing for Brentford at St James’ Park on April 2.
Writing on social media, the United captain admitted to feeling “sad” at missing the big game. He posted: “A very important win. In the grip, in the will and in the sweat with the Brazilian style. Thank you Brasilia for your support.
“It sure made a difference for us. We follow for more. Sad to be out of the next game but for sure I will be a fan of our national team.”
NewcastleWorld now understands Guimaraes has flown back to England and will take no further part in Brazil’s camp. The Magpies are set to celebrate the Carabao Cup win with supporters at the Town Moor next weekend (March 29), four days before their Premier League season resumes.
Bruno Guimaraes on difference between Newcastle United and Brazil
The 27-year-old believes he is able to express himself “better” while wearing the famous Brazilian yellow. Guimaraes was given the Newcastle armband by Eddie Howe at the start of the campaign.
“Here we can express ourselves better, because it’s our first language,” he told UOL. “In England it’s different, a new role. Here (in Brazil) I feel more at ease. I’ve always done that (played with emotion) and I hope to bring what I do at the club here to the national team.”
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