Going to the World Cup has been a driving force behind Bruno Guimaraes‘ sensational Newcastle form, according to the Athletic’s Chris Waugh.
The midfielder’s dream came true on Monday afternoon. Brazil manager Tite named his 26-man squad for the tournament in Qatar. And it includes Bruno.
There were emotional scenes when his name was read out, while he was met with a plethora of congratulatory messages following the announcement.
It’s crazy to think that there is a Newcastle United player in the Brazil squad for the World Cup – and a Brazil squad that many believe are the favourites to win the entire competition.
If that happens, all of Bruno’s hard work will have been worth it, and he will return to Newcastle as a World Cup winner. He really would be well on his way to legend status.
What has been said about Bruno Guimaraes and the World Cup behind the scenes
On the latest episode of Pod On The Tyne, the Athletic’s Chris Waugh discussed Bruno’s callup to the Brazil World Cup squad, and how it has been motivating him behind the scenes at Newcastle.
“It means a heck of a lot to him,” Waugh said.
“I’ve spoken to people behind the scenes at Newcastle who’ve said that’s been part of his driving force this year. He’s determined to go to the World Cup and do well.
“I asked Eddie Howe about it on Friday and he said he hopes Bruno is given the opportunity to shine on the world stage and show how good a player he is and can be.”
Bruno took a huge risk joining Newcastle
If the World Cup has been such a big motivation for Bruno, it makes his transfer to Newcastle all the more shocking.
At the start of 2022, the Magpies were in the relegation zone. Meanwhile, Bruno was playing in the Europa League with Lyon.
To leave that for Newcastle was a crazy move that could have backfired massively. He might not have settled in a new league, or we could have been relegated.
That would have killed Bruno’s World Cup dream. Fast forward almost 12 months and now he looks like he has to start for Tite’s side.
The 24-year-old has been a magician in black and white. A transformative signing who is a shining reminder of where the club is going under new ownership.
Bruno joined a team fighting for their life in January 2022. It’s now November 2022 and we are third in the Premier League. Meanwhile, he is one of the best midfielders in the entire division.
Now the world is set to see exactly what Bruno is capable in the yellow of Brazil.
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