Bruno Guimaraes knows what to expect as Newcastle United head to Sunderland on Sunday. Guimaraes, of course, played in Newcastle United’s ...
Bruno Guimaraes knows what to expect as Newcastle United head to Sunderland on Sunday.
Guimaraes, of course, played in Newcastle United’s last game against Sunderland, which was an FA Cup win back in January 2024.
The Brazilian is a player built for the big occasion, even if his form away from home pales in comparison to what he’s done at St James’ Park.
Already one of the best captains in Newcastle United history, Guimaraes would further cement his status if he leads his team to victory at the Stadium of Light on Sunday.
There are not many Newcastle players steeped in Tyne-Wear derby experience but Guimaraes is one of them and he’s fully aware of everything it entails.
Bruno Guimaraes expecting hostile reception from Sunderland fans
The main difference from his last outing at the Stadium of Light is that Guimaraes is now Newcastle’s captain.
As such, the midfielder has an added degree of responsibility on his shoulders.
It’s difficult to know what the game is going to throw up on the pitch but Guimaraes knows what’s going to come from the terraces.
Speaking to Sky Sports, he admitted that the home support are going to make it very tough for the Newcastle players.
“I know it’s going to be a tough atmosphere, but it’s a derby, it’s a final. We have to perform, we have to play well and we have to win, so that’s the mentality now,” he said.
“I love this type of game. Always as a team, we perform well when we know that the atmosphere is going to be good.
“We know if we want to be a king here, we have to win the derby. We can’t wait to get on Sunderland and play our best football, hopefully.”
The cheeky dig Bruno Guimaraes sent to Sunderland fans after Newcastle United last beat them
Following the FA Cup victory on Wearside in January 2024, Guimaraes said he always knew that Newcastle would beat Sunderland.
Times, however, have now changed.
While there are genuine reasons to believe that Newcastle can and will beat Sunderland on Sunday, there’s little doubt the Black Cats have vastly improved since their last meeting.
It will be a tougher game, particularly given Newcastle’s troubles on the road for around nine months now.
Still, with players like Guimaraes in the ranks, Newcastle always have a chance.
It would not be a surprise if he steps up.
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