Newcastle head coach Matthias Jaissle has admitted Bruno Guimaraes’ departure was already decided before the pair held their first conversation, with the midfielder closing in on a £75 million move to Arsenal.
The Brazilian is expected to complete his long-awaited switch to the Gunners after the two clubs finally reached an agreement, ending his three-year spell at St James’ Park.
Jaissle revealed he only had a brief opportunity to speak with Guimaraes during Newcastle’s training camp in Spain before the midfielder said his goodbyes to team-mates and staff.
“I met him quickly, but the decision was already made,” Jaissle said.
“It was a nice conversation. He’s a fantastic player and a great human being. It’s tough but for him now it’s the next challenge and we need to deal with it at a later stage.
“We trust the players who are here already, but we will also see some changes.”
Guimaraes is set to become the latest high-profile departure from Newcastle, following Anthony Gordon’s move to Barcelona, Sandro Tonali’s switch to Tottenham and Alexander Isak’s transfer to Liverpool over the past year.
Jaissle determined to kickstart new era
Despite the loss of several key players, Jaissle insists Newcastle must embrace the opportunity to begin a new era.
“This is a challenge and there are so many transitions at the moment,” he said.
“Many big players left – legends of the club – but we need to see it as a chance.
“Not having too many excuses now, just thinking forward about what we can influence.
“Control the controllables, I used to say, and I’m sure there will be progress this season.”
The Magpies have already spent around £146 million this summer, focusing on young talent from across Europe.
Goalkeepers Lukas Hornicek and Ewen Jaouen, midfielders Aladji Bamba and Sean Steur, and winger Bazoumana Toure have all arrived, with 24-year-old Hornicek the oldest of the club’s new signings.
Jaissle, who previously enjoyed successful spells with RB Salzburg and Al-Ahli, believes he is ready for his first experience in the Premier League.
“This is something I don’t have on my CV, but that’s normal in football,” he said.
“At one point it has to be your first step and I’m now at that moment after being successful in Saudi Arabia and Austria.
“Everyone was dreaming about being a part of the Premier League and now here we are.”
Newcastle begin their 2026-27 Premier League campaign at home to Liverpool on August 23.
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