Bruno Guimaraes was unable to inspire Newcastle United towards a historic Champions League night against Barcelona.
Eddie Howe’s side have kicked off their European campaign with a defeat, as Newcastle lost 2-1 to Barcelona.
The La Liga giants’ class shone through on a night when the Magpies can have few complaints. They did themselves proud, but failed to take key chances. Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes squandered opportunities to give Newcastle the lead, as Hansi Flick’s side went on to dictate proceedings.
The St James’ Park atmosphere was electric, befitting of a Champions League night. However, it could not inspire what would have been a legendary victory.
But this game will not define Newcastle’s European adventure, and Bruno Guimaraes was keen to reinforce that message after the full-time whistle.
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Bruno Guimaraes calls on Newcastle United supporters after losing to Barcelona
Thursday was a special night for Bruno, captaining Newcastle United in the Champions League for the first time. However, he could not propel his side to victory.
Following the defeat, the 27-year-old took to his official Instagram account to send a message to supporters.
Bruno wrote: “Tough way to start with a loss, but so much ahead and we’ll need your support all the way. Howay the lads.
“@WorFlags unbelievable display. We go again.”
The midfielder has called on the fans to continue their support, and there is no doubt he will get his wish. Newcastle have three more Champions League games at home, as they take on Benfica, Athletic Club and PSV Eindhoven.
The atmosphere needs to be just as good for those games, with Wor Flags setting the tone. Their AC/DC-inspired display on Thursday night truly was remarkable, and it will be exciting to see what they produce for the remaining Champions League games.
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Bruno Guimaraes outclassed by Barcelona superstar
It is rare that Bruno is overshadowed in midfield. Alongside Sandro Tonali and Joelinton, Bruno is part of a midfield that is widely considered to be the best in the Premier League.
But the Champions League is different. Newcastle’s midfield did not play badly against Barcelona, but they were outclassed.
The star of the show was Pedri, who taught the Magpies a lesson in keeping possession and dictating play. The Spaniard was out of this world, producing one of the best performances I have ever seen at St James’ Park.
His midfield partner Frenkie de Jong was not bad either, eventually putting his stamp on proceedings after some early tussles with Joelinton.
| Midfielders | Minutes played | Passes completed | Duels won | Touches |
| Pedri | 90 | 84/92 | 9/12 | 111 |
| Frenkie de Jong | 90 | 86/87 | 4/8 | 98 |
| Fermin Lopez | 89 | 25/32 | 5/14 | 50 |
| Bruno Guimaraes | 90 | 25/33 | 4/11 | 49 |
| Sandro Tonali | 90 | 22/36 | 4/9 | 56 |
| Joelinton | 62 | 13/19 | 5/8 | 27 |
Eddie Howe’s side did themselves proud on Thursday night, but Barcelona are capable of playing at a level that Newcastle just cannot reach right now. There is no shame in that, as Flick’s side proved why they are contenders to win the entire Champions League this season.
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