Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes has revealed his happiness at receiving praise from Pep Guardiola, but insisted that it has nothing to do with any potential future move to the Premier League champions.
The Brazilian has proved a revelation since his arrival from Lyon in January 2022, spearheading the Newcastle push for Champions League football and becoming a key part of Eddie Howe’s Magpies.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, either, with plenty of clubs reportedly interested in prising him away from Tyneside.
When I said yes to Newcastle, I was sure I was choosing a big project. From the bottom of my heart, I didn’t expected to live the wonderful things I’m living here.
Respect for the team, love for the fans and each day feeling more at home.🖤🤍 pic.twitter.com/3xkD5Y6SoJ— Bruno Guimarães (@brunoog97) March 5, 2023
However, Guimaraes assured fans that him being spotted in conversation with Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola following their 2-0 defeat at the Etihad was entirely innocent.
“He told me that I was a good player — this makes me happy, because, for me, he’s the best manager that I’ve seen”, he explained.
“That’s it, that’s this conversation, not more”
“Newcastle will be in the Champions League every year in the future”, he began. “I think about staying here for a long time. I want to make the club story as priority”.
As it stands, a wobble in form is threatening to see the Magpies miss out on that coveted prize this season. Currently sixth, they sit four points behind fourth placed Tottenham, though they do have two games in hand on the north London side.
Perhaps more worrying is their recent results, however, with Howe’s side not having won in their last five Premier League games and being well beaten in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.
They will need to turn things around sooner rather than later, with Liverpool breathing down their necks, but should current form continue they are in danger of missing out on European football entirely next season.
