Joelinton Dealt Brazil Blow as Bruno Guimaraes Keeps His Place Ahead of Newcastle’s Champions League Clash
Newcastle United midfielder Joelinton has been left out of the latest Brazil national team squad, just days before the Magpies’ Champions League encounter with Athletic Club at St James’ Park.
The 29-year-old had joined up with the Selecão during last month’s international break for friendlies in Asia against South Korea and Japan. While he didn’t feature in the 5-0 win over South Korea, he came off the bench to earn his eighth Brazil cap in the 3-2 defeat to Japan in Tokyo. His Newcastle teammate Bruno Guimaraes, however, started both games and provided an assist in each.
Both players endured a gruelling travel schedule to and from Asia, including a disrupted flight to Seoul that was forced to turn back due to a window malfunction. This time, though, Guimaraes will enjoy a lighter schedule as Brazil face Senegal on November 15 at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium, followed by Tunisia on November 18 at Lille’s Decathlon Arena.
While Joelinton has been dropped following a run of mixed form for Newcastle, Guimaraes has cemented his spot as one of the first names on the team sheet under new manager Carlo Ancelotti. The Magpies captain has impressed this season, registering three goals and two assists in nine Premier League appearances despite Sunday’s disappointing 3-1 defeat at West Ham.
Joelinton’s omission marks the second time this season he’s missed a Brazil call-up — the first due to injury during the September window. His place in Newcastle’s midfield is also under scrutiny, having been left out of the starting XI in recent Champions League and Carabao Cup wins over Benfica and Tottenham respectively.
With Jacob Ramsey, Lewis Miley, and Joe Willock all pushing for minutes, Joelinton faces a battle to reclaim his spot in Eddie Howe’s preferred lineup.
Meanwhile, Guimaraes continues to be a mainstay for Brazil, having only missed two matches since the 2022 World Cup— one due to rotation and another through suspension. With qualification for the 2026 tournament already secured, the 26-year-old will aim to reinforce his importance to both club and country in the weeks ahead.
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