Bruno Guimaraes needed the international break.
The Newcastle United star has not been at his best this season amid ongoing contract talks, ones that may soon reach a positive conclusion.
While Guimaraes was not the only player to have struggled during the opening few games of the campaign, his standing as perhaps Eddie Howe’s most important player naturally invites more scrutiny.
Luckily, the 25-year-old starred for Brazil against Peru, surely raising confidence once more.
Indeed, some of his international teammates took note as Guimaraes looked to take that form back to St James’ Park.
Vinicius Jr responds to Bruno Guimaraes’ performance against Brentford
After the tight victory over Brentford on Saturday, a jubilant Guimaraes took to Instagram to celebrate.
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The midfielder posted a collage of images from the win, captioning the collection: “Back to win! Happy to be black and white.”
Interestingly, Brazil teammate and current Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior took note, replying: “What a player.”
An improved performance from Guimaraes
Though still not quite at his eye-catching best, it was an improved outing for Guimaraes on Saturday.
According to WhoScored data, the former Lyon star played a key pass (joint-second highest in the Newcastle ranks), completed three dribbles (joint-second highest) and amassed a pass completion rate of 86%.
All of those numbers rank higher than the averages he’s produced in those metrics this season, perhaps hinting that his form is on the up.
Interestingly, an improved performance came without Sandro Tonali. While the club are said to be hopeful the midfield trio of Guimaraes, Tonali and Joelinton will soon click into gear, it’s something that should be noted.
Clearly, it’d be foolish to get carried away based on one game but Newcastle need Guimaraes back to his best.
With AC Milan up next, maybe things are on the way up for him.