‘I Had to Leave’ – Bruno Guimaraes Finally Reveals Why He Quit Newcastle for Arsenal

Bruno Guimaraes believes he played an important role in helping Newcastle United rebuild during his four-and-a-half years at St James’ Park.

The Brazilian midfielder arrived at Newcastle in January 2022 and quickly became one of the most influential and popular figures at the club. He was a key part of the team that secured two Champions League qualifications and captained Newcastle to Carabao Cup success.

Guimaraes often described himself as an adopted Geordie, but his departure last month left many Newcastle supporters disappointed, particularly after his controversial “small club” celebration and subsequent social media activity.

Now, comments from Guimaraes have emerged from Brazil, offering further insight into his decision to leave Newcastle.

“I spent almost five years at Newcastle,” Guimaraes told ESPN Brasil. “I believe I helped rebuild the club. When I arrived, I felt it was a difficult period in the club’s history. Together with my family, I decided it was time to experience something new.

“I am very happy with the opportunity I have at Arsenal. Now, it is about continuing to work. I was delighted to make a positive start in my first official match, and winning the title was very important.

“We have a very strong squad with great players. The objective is to compete for everything, and that is what we are going to try to do.”

Ross Wilson admits Newcastle wanted to keep Guimaraes

Newcastle sporting director Ross Wilson has admitted that the club did not want to lose Guimaraes during the summer transfer window.

The midfielder eventually completed his move to Arsenal, despite Newcastle initially hoping to keep their captain.

“We did not want to lose Bruno Guimaraes,” Wilson told reporters. “It was really disappointing that we reached that point in the end, although we were satisfied with where we eventually got to in terms of the transfer fee.

“That was not part of our plan. Everything else that happened during the window was part of the plan.”

Guimaraes has since made his Arsenal debut, although he was substituted during their 3-0 defeat to Brighton. He had previously scored his first goal for the Gunners against Sunderland.