Bruno Guimarães surprised Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe with his determination and fitness claims after helping the team to a 2-0 Champions League victory over Athletic Club on Wednesday night.
Despite missing Tuesday’s training session due to illness, the Newcastle captain insisted on starting and played 65 minutes before being replaced by Lewis Miley. Goals from Dan Burn and Joelinton sealed The Magpies’ third consecutive win in the competition, lifting them to sixth in their group. Newcastle’s European campaign continues after the international break with away trips to Marseille and Bayer Leverkusen before facing PSV Eindhoven and Paris Saint-Germain in the new year.
Speaking after the match, Guimarães admitted he wasn’t feeling well but pushed through for the team:
“It felt like I had 10 kilos on my back. For this club, I’ll do everything. I started feeling unwell the day before we played West Ham.”
When told about the midfielder’s remark, Howe couldn’t help but laugh.
“That’s news to me—he told me this morning he was feeling a million dollars!” the Newcastle manager said. “But his character is unquestionable. His desire to play is incredible. We had a good chat before the game, and he assured me he was ready to deliver for the team, even if not 100%. That’s why we took him off when we did—to protect him.”
Howe praised Guimarães’ impact and leadership, admitting the team lost some rhythm after his substitution.
“He’s so important to us,” Howe added. “We’ve got a group full of good players with great attitudes. The will and desire are there—we just need to keep our focus and execute our plans, starting with Brentford this Sunday.”
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