Newcastle United’s narrow win over Fulham at St James’ Park once again underlined the brilliance of Bruno Guimaraes, whose late heroics spared the Magpies from what could have been another frustrating afternoon.
The Brazilian midfielder has become the heart and soul of Eddie Howe’s side, constantly delivering when it matters most. His instinctive finish after William Osula’s shot was spilled by Bernd Leno showcased not only his awareness but his determination to lead from the front.
Match of the Day pundit Michael Carrick described him as Newcastle’s “talisman,” and it’s hard to argue otherwise Guimaraes continues to carry the weight of expectation and deliver moments that keep Newcastle’s season alive.
Yet, while the spotlight shines brightly on the Brazilian maestro, there’s a growing concern about another of Newcastle’s South American stars Joelinton. Once a symbol of grit, energy, and transformation under Howe, the 29-year-old midfielder has struggled to find his rhythm this season.
A player once praised for his physicality and work rate now appears a shadow of his former self. Joelinton, who has amassed an impressive 232 appearances for Newcastle and contributed 31 goals and 21 assists, seems to have lost the spark that made him indispensable in previous campaigns.
Local journalist Mark Douglas noted that Joelinton looks “nowhere near his best” this season, and the stats support that claim. Unlike last year, when he managed seven goal contributions, he has yet to register a single goal or assist in the Premier League this term.
His influence on matches has waned, and Howe’s patience appears to be wearing thin. The manager substituted him at half-time during the loss to Brighton, a decision that spoke volumes about his dwindling form. Against Fulham, while Guimaraes inspired victory, Joelinton managed just one weak attempt on goal despite winning several duels.
His effort is unquestionable, but the sharpness and dominance that once defined him seem to have faded.
At 29, and with his 30th birthday approaching next year, Joelinton’s best days might be behind him. The demands of Howe’s high-energy system are relentless, and Newcastle may soon need to refresh their midfield options.
Joe Willock remains an option, but injuries and inconsistency have raised doubts about his ability to perform at the highest level week after week. The reality is that the Magpies must begin planning for the future and that includes finding a long-term successor to Joelinton.
Enter Hayden Hackney, the Middlesbrough midfielder reportedly attracting strong interest from Newcastle.
According to TBR Football, the Premier League club has joined Tottenham, Manchester United, and Crystal Palace in monitoring the young Englishman ahead of the January transfer window.
At just 23, Hackney has been one of the standout performers in the Championship, earning praise for his intensity, technical ability, and composure on the ball. Analyst Ben Mattinson once described him as “special,” and his performances for Boro this season have only reinforced that reputation.
Hackney’s numbers speak for themselves. In 12 league appearances, he has scored twice and provided two assists, while maintaining an impressive passing accuracy of 87%.
He averages over 80 touches per game, 5.3 ball recoveries, and 1.7 key passes every ninety minutes figures that highlight both his involvement and impact in midfield. These statistics draw an interesting parallel to Joelinton in his prime.
The Brazilian’s game has always been built on physicality and relentless pressing, traits Hackney mirrors with his energy and determination.
Middlesbrough boss Rob Edwards has repeatedly praised Hackney’s work rate, noting that his engine and stamina set him apart from many of his Championship peers.
Those attributes would make him a perfect fit for Howe’s pressing system, which relies heavily on dynamic, box-to-box midfielders capable of both breaking up play and driving the ball forward.
While it’s always a gamble to assume that Championship form will translate seamlessly into Premier League success, Hackney’s maturity and intelligence suggest he could make the step up.
Newcastle’s new sporting director, Ross Wilson, views the upcoming transfer window as an opportunity not just to reinforce the squad, but also to secure the future of key players like Guimaraes.
Yet, part of that strategy must include identifying and nurturing the next generation of midfield leaders. Hackney represents exactly that kind of investment a young, energetic player with the hunger and potential to evolve into a Premier League powerhouse.
For Joelinton, the challenge is clear. His legacy at Newcastle is already secured; he’s been part of the club’s modern revival and has earned the respect of fans for his transformation from struggling forward to commanding midfielder.
But football moves fast, and sentiment rarely influences selection. If Newcastle want to continue their climb toward the Premier League’s elite, tough decisions will have to be made.
Hackney could be the answer to a problem that’s becoming more obvious with each passing game. As Joelinton’s influence fades, Newcastle need fresh legs and fresh ideas in midfield.
The young Middlesbrough star may just be the heir to Joelinton’s throne a player who embodies the same fight, energy, and drive that once made the Brazilian so special. And if the Magpies make their move soon, they could secure not just a replacement, but a future cornerstone of their midfield for years to come.
