EMOTIONAL Bruno Guimaraes admitted he “wanted to cry” after an incredible gesture from Newcastle supporters.
Fan-favourite Guimaraes, 26, has been a revelation for the Magpies since joining from Lyon in 2022.
I've never been so grateful! Thank you for everything, NUFC fans. What a day! I Will never forget it
— Bruno Guimarães (@brunoog97) April 27, 2024@worflags https://t.co/iW5sySkCkB
However, his strong performances have inevitably led to transfer interest from other clubs hoping to poach the Brazilian midfielder.
And amid news of a £100million release clause, SunSport revealed PSG could trigger a summer exit, but the Toon Army wanted to make sure Guimaraes knows just how much he is loved at St James’ Park.
So ahead of the 5-1 thumping win over Sheffield United on Saturday, Newcastle fans unveiled an incredible giant Brazil flag in the Gallowgate End.
The special display was organised by Wor Flags as they made their feelings about Guimaraes – and compatriot Joelinton who has signed a new contract.
A banner was also unfurled before kick-off – in Portuguese – which translated as: “From Aliança and Rio to Newcastle upon Tyne, a home away from home.
“Joelinton and Bruno, our Brazilian Geordies.”
After shaking hands with the Blades players, Guimaraes headed towards the giant mural in the stand and applauded the fans.
And speaking to Newcastle’s club media after the win in which he grabbed the second goal and kissed the badge, he revealed just how much the tribute meant.
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Guimaraes said: “I was speaking with Joe [Joelinton] in the changing room.
“We wanted to cry. It was very special.
“I made an effort not to cry on the pitch because it was very beautiful.
“My family were very happy, so thank you to the fans, they have been unbelievable with me.”
He later tweeted: “I’ve never been so grateful! Thank you for everything, NUFC fans. What a day! I will never forget it.
“An indescribable feeling I was able to experience this afternoon. Gratitude, love, respect, and partnership.
NEWCASTLE cult hero Joelinton rescued his old boss after he fainted in Subway.
And coach Pellegrino Matarazzo still calls the Brazilian his ‘angel’.
Matarazzo was Joelinton assistant manager during the midfielder’s spell in Germany with Hoffenheim.
Recalling the scary incident, the Matarazzo revealed: “I was standing in the queue and I wasn’t feeling well.
“I tried to go over to the Coca-Cola machine to quickly get a drink.
“I realised I was about to faint, and I did faint.
“When I opened my eyes I saw Joelinton! ‘Rino, Rino, are you okay?’
“He was like a small, no a big, angel – Joelinton, what are you doing here?”
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“My greatest victory is being a Geordie on the field.
“Representing you, the fans, on the field is what keeps me focused and always striving for my best.
“Happy for the affection you’ve always shown me and for being able to represent my country in Newcastle. Onwards to more.”
Toon boss Eddie Howe admitted the release clause in Guimaraes’ contract takes the control out of the club’s hands if another team meet those demands.
Naturally, the manager is desperate to keep hold of the influential £160,000-a-week midfielder – although FFP restrictions could turn their hand.
But Howe will have been boosted by the Brazilian buying a new £4m house for his family in the exclusive Daras Hall neighbourhood in Northumberland.
However, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal are all weighing up offers to rival PSG.
