Bruno Guimarães is facing the possibility of an FA ban following his involvement in a mass brawl at the end of Newcastle United’s derby defeat to Sunderland.
The Magpies captain was a central figure throughout the second half at the Stadium of Light as he attempted to spark a comeback after Newcastle fell behind to an own goal from Nick Woltemade. The Brazilian drove his side forward and was heavily involved during the final 20 minutes, registering two efforts on goal and completing 51 passes. Despite his influence, Newcastle were unable to break down Sunderland’s resolute defence.
Tensions boiled over deep into stoppage time when Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs went to ground following a challenge from Joe Willock. As players crowded around the Newcastle midfielder, a separate confrontation erupted, quickly escalating into a large-scale melee involving almost every player on the pitch.
The incident is expected to be reviewed by the Football Association, with both clubs potentially charged for failing to control their players. Fines could be issued to both Newcastle United and Sunderland as a result.
Guimarães also picked up his fourth yellow card of the Premier League season, leaving him one booking away from an automatic one-match suspension. Under Premier League regulations, players who collect five yellow cards within their first 19 league appearances must serve a ban in the same competition.
That means the Newcastle skipper must avoid caution in upcoming league fixtures against Chelsea, Manchester United on Boxing Day, and Burnley. After the Burnley match, the threshold rises to 10 bookings in 32 games, which would trigger a two-match suspension.
Elsewhere in the squad, Dan Burn and Joelinton are sitting on three yellow cards. Both will need to be careful over the festive period, although Burn is unlikely to feature after being hospitalised with a rib injury sustained in a challenge involving Sunderland defender Nordi Mukiele.
Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is already dealing with selection concerns ahead of Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup clash against Fulham. Burn joins Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth, Sven Botman, Nick Pope and Will Osula on the injury list, leaving Howe with limited options.
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