Brazil media deliver Bruno Guimaraes verdict after displaying performance for Carlo Ancelotti
Bruno Guimarães, the captain of Newcastle United, took center stage in Brazil’s starting lineup for Carlo Ancelotti’s managerial debut with the national team.
The match against Ecuador at Estadio Banco Pichincha in Guayaquil ended in a goalless draw, reflecting a solid defensive effort rather than offensive flair. Despite failing to lead Brazil to victory, Bruno’s contribution remained pivotal throughout the contest.
The Newcastle midfielder partnered Casemiro and Gerson in the heart of Brazil’s midfield. Known for his high work rate, Guimarães once again demonstrated his tireless engine, having covered more ground than any other player in the Premier League this season.
He played nearly the entire match and was only substituted in the 92nd minute for Fulham’s Andreas Pereira. Though the match ended without goals, Brazil’s performance under Ancelotti showed promise, especially in defensive structure.
This result keeps Brazil in fourth place in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualification standings. With only the top six teams advancing to the 2026 tournament in the United States, Brazil’s defensive display offers a solid foundation as they adjust to Ancelotti’s methods.
Brazilian media offered mixed reviews of Bruno’s performance, yet most agreed on his vital role in maintaining midfield balance. Globo Esporte rated him a 6 out of 10, describing his performance as “impeccable in defense” and critical to Ancelotti’s midfield design.
He won seven of nine duels and often dropped deep to support both defense and build-up play. The publication emphasized his tactical discipline in a team that now prioritizes defensive solidity.
In contrast, Goal provided a slightly more generous assessment, awarding Bruno a 7 out of 10. Their commentary noted his combative style, pointing out that he seemed determined to win every tackle and break up opposition attacks.
Although this added grit to Brazil’s midfield, it also highlighted the team’s lack of attacking momentum. PSG defender Marquinhos received the highest mark of the game from Goal, earning an 8 out of 10 for his commanding presence at the back.
After the match, Guimarães reflected on the performance via Instagram. He acknowledged the draw as an acceptable result given the short preparation time, stating: “An important point due to circumstances!! Only 3 days of training and a lot to improve. We fight and that has to be the spirit from now on. Let’s go Brazil. Step by step.”
His comments captured the cautious optimism surrounding Brazil’s transition under Ancelotti, whose defensive emphasis produced a clean sheet but left questions about offensive creativity.
With another qualifier approaching, Brazil will face Paraguay in the early hours of Wednesday morning. This match will also mark a reunion between Guimarães and former Newcastle teammate Miguel Almirón, who joined Atlanta United in the January transfer window.
Back in the Premier League, Newcastle United are making moves in the summer transfer market. One of their primary targets is West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus. Known for his versatility and flair, Kudus has emerged as a top candidate to reinforce Newcastle’s attacking line.
With options narrowing—Bryan Mbeumo appears close to joining Manchester United and Liam Delap chose Chelsea—Newcastle’s focus has intensified on Kudus.
Scouted extensively by Newcastle, Kudus also has Chelsea’s attention. Despite West Ham’s desire to keep him, financial constraints and a need to rebuild under new manager Graham Potter may force the club to sell. According to The London Standard, only Jarrod Bowen is considered untouchable at West Ham, making Kudus a viable candidate for departure.
Kudus has a release clause of £85 million, valid only during the first ten days of July. This short window puts pressure on interested clubs to act quickly. The Ghanaian forward is valued not just for his talent but also for his adaptability—something Eddie Howe deeply appreciates in his squad.
The following table breaks down Kudus’ positional versatility and performance last season, as reported by Transfermarkt:
| Position | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Left winger | 9 | 3 | 0 |
| Striker | 8 | 1 | 0 |
| Right winger | 6 | 0 | 2 |
| Attacking midfielder | 6 | 0 | 0 |
| Left midfielder | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Right midfielder | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| Second striker | 1 | 0 | 1 |
This versatility aligns well with Howe’s tactical flexibility. However, the 2024-25 season proved challenging for Kudus. He netted five goals and contributed three assists in 32 Premier League appearances.
A red card against Tottenham in October interrupted his momentum and cast a shadow over what had otherwise been a promising campaign.
Though undeniably talented, Kudus represents a calculated risk—especially given his high release clause. Newcastle must weigh the potential benefits of his dynamic skill set against the financial implications of such a hefty investment.
Yet, with the club’s ambition to bolster its attacking depth and return to European competition, a player like Kudus could prove to be the spark they need.
As the transfer window unfolds and Brazil continues its World Cup qualifying campaign, Bruno Guimarães remains central to both club and country. His influence on the pitch is unmistakable, whether anchoring Brazil’s midfield or driving Newcastle’s ambitions forward.