It is no secret that Pep Guardiola really admires Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.
The Manchester City manager is a big fan of Bruno Guimaraes, with the Brazilian establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s best midfielders since joining Newcastle United in 2022.
Bruno has been a superstar since his £40million move from Lyon, and is now worth more than double that amount. That is what it would have cost to sign him in the summer, with Bruno boasting a £100million release clause in his contract.
There were fears that Guardiola would activate it. Manchester City were linked with signing Bruno, but opted against triggering his release clause.
However, that appears to have been because of financial reasons, rather than a reflection of the 27-year-old’s ability. Guardiola described Bruno as ‘exceptional’ back in March, while it was claimed that Man City think Bruno could directly replace Rodri, who recently won the 2024 Ballon d’Or.
Bruno Guimaraes comments on Pep Guardiola and Manchester City interest
Bruno is held in such high regard by Guardiola, and the Newcastle United midfielder has shared details of a conversation he had with the Manchester City.
He is away on international duty with Brazil at the moment, and was asked by Globo about the rumoured interest from Manchester City and receiving praise from Guardiola.
“I believe that at my club I am an idol and I have a lot of respect,” he said.
“I am the captain of Newcastle and it is something that if you had asked me three years ago, my biggest dream would have been to play in the Premier League. Playing, being an idol, being captain is something wonderful. I really like Newcastle.
“Of course, having Manchester City’s suggestions shows that I am at a high level, but it was nothing more than suggestions. I know that Guardiola likes my football, it is normal to have great coaches who admire your football.
“We have spoken once after the interview, I praised his work, he praised my work, but it was nothing more than that.”
Newcastle have made Bruno Guimaraes feel special
As Bruno says, the Manchester City rumours were nothing more than that – rumours.
He has made it clear that he is happy at Newcastle United, and is relishing the responsibility of being captain.
That was part of the reason why Eddie Howe opted to give him the armband at the start of the season. It was claimed that Howe thought making Bruno captain would encourage him to play even better, and the hope will be that he takes his game to an even greater level as the campaign progresses.
When it comes to Guardiola being such a big fan, that will understandably make some Newcastle United fans nervous. However, that does not necessarily mean that a move to Manchester City will be forthcoming, as it is unclear how much longer Guardiola will remain at the Etihad Stadium.
His contract runs until 2025, and it is reported by ESPN that Guardiola will make a decision about his Man City future within the next couple of months.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
