Bruno Guimaraes has revealed he hopes to stay at Newcastle United “for a long time”, believing the club will soon be a regular in the Champions League and become a “giant” in world football.
Speaking to The Mail’s Craig Hope at Sunday’s annual awards dinner – where he was named the North East Writers’ Player of the Year – Bruno also predicted that Edie Howe will be England’s manager in the future, describing him as an “amazing” man and manager.
He also cleared up what was really said during a brief chat with Pep Guardiola after Saturday’s defeat at the Etihad, saying the Spaniard called him a “good player” and nothing more.
He was clearly flattered, but seems determined to be a big part of this exciting project, not pursue a summer move elsewhere anytime soon. Here’s what he had to say, starting with his comments on his future with the club.
Bruno when asked if he can achieve his goals at St James’ Park and emulate Man City’s success:
“I think we can. If we see what we did last season, we were a team that was fighting against relegation. Now we have got to a final, we’re fighting for the Champions League. This club will be in the Champions League every year in the future.
“What makes me happy is knowing that this is just the first year. We have the potential to be a giant in the world. I’m happy and proud to be part of the revolution of the team, of the city, of everyone, because the city is about football. I can feel it since I signed for the club. This is very special for me.
“I think about staying here for a long time. When I signed, I thought I would like to put my name in the club’s story. I think I’m doing it, but, of course, to get my name there, I need to win a title.
“I know what a title means for the club’s story. People grow up and they never see Newcastle as champions. My motivation here is to win a title for the club.”
Bruno’s Eddie Howe prediction:
“I’m sure that in the future he will be the England manager, because he’s an amazing guy, an amazing manager.”
Bruno on his chat with Pep Guardiola after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat:
“He told me that I was a good player. This makes me happy, because, for me, he’s the best manager that I’ve seen. That’s it, that’s this conversation, not more.”
