The 2023/24 season is officially over for Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes.
While most of Newcastle United‘s senior players have not had to kick a ball since the penalty shootout win over Tottenham Hotspur in Australia, the campaign has kept on going for Bruno Guimaraes.
He has been representing Brazil at the Copa America, starting in midfield as the Selecao attempted to reach their third consecutive final. They were beaten finalists in 2021, and were hoping to go one further on this occasion.
However, Brazil and Bruno’s dream came to an end on Saturday night.
Copa America ends for Bruno Guimaraes
While England were celebrating a quarter final win over Switzerland on penalties, Brazil suffered shootout heartache.
After a 0-0 draw with Uruguay, Brazil lost 4-2 on penalties to crash out of the Copa America.
Bruno’s dream is over, although he was not responsible for the penalty disappointment. He had been substituted, coming off in the 87th minute.
Without Bruno, Brazil went on to lose. They have now been eliminated from the competition, in what was a sad end to a disappointing tournament.
Brazil exit could help Newcastle United
The end of the Copa America will be heartbreaking for Bruno, who will have had ambitions of winning a trophy for his country.
It is a real shame for the 26-year-old, but Brazil’s early elimination could actually benefit Newcastle United.
It has been a gruelling season for the midfielder. He was the Magpies’ most reliable player during an incredibly taxing campaign, making 50 appearances out of a possible 51.
Bruno has had to play so many minutes in black and white, as well as his international commitments. Combine those with that post-season trip to Australia and Bruno must be absolutely shattered.
With the Copa America now over for him, Bruno will get a well deserved break. It is a break that Newcastle will be glad he is getting, as the Magpies need their talisman fit and firing for the start of the new campaign.
That is because, despite all of Newcastle’s midfield options, Eddie Howe will actually start the new season a little short in that area. Sandro Tonali is still suspended, while Lewis Miley is injured. On top of that, Elliot Anderson has left the club to sign for Nottingham Forest.
Howe will not have the opportunity to ease Bruno back into the action, so will be somewhat grateful that his international exploits have ended a week earlier than anticipated.
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