He’s my ‘brother’, best man and best mate … but best to move on, says Joelinton
Written by Gehan Ahmed on 26th September 2026
Bruno Guimaraes (left) and Joelinton celebrate Newcastle’s 2025 Carabao Cup victory – after helping the club to its first silverware in 70 years.
Newcastle United star Joelinton has spoken for the first time about losing his Brazilian ‘brother’, after Bruno Guimaraes’ £75million move to Arsenal.
The combative midfielder had a tough start for the Magpies, struggling to score as the club’s No9 – until the arrival of Guimaraes in 2022 transformed his role and success on the pitch.
Joelinton moved alongside Guimaraes into midfield, forming a powerful partnership on the pitch and an off-the-pitch friendship which saw both players become each other’s best man, and describe themselves as ‘brothers’.
But now that Guimaraes has left Newcastle, Joelinton’s response is ‘all business’ and he says it’s natural to move on.
“It’s never time to cry, because football always moves forward,” he said. “Like I say about [ex-manager] Eddie [Howe], Bruno is the same; a great person for Newcastle United who has left the club.
“What Bruno did here was amazing, and we have to remember that.
“He always gave his best for the club and respected everybody. We have to remember him as a great player – because he was.
“We wish him all the best, but football doesn’t stop, players come and go, coaches come and go, the only thing that is permanent is the fans and the club.
“We always move forward, we have had good players, and we have signed good players that we now hope can deliver great things for the club in the years ahead.”
Guimaraes not only formed friendships in the team but also quickly became a fans’ favourite, with his passion for the club and a similar combative style to Joelinton.
Another thing which endeared him to the Toon Army was his proud love of family.
While at Newcastle, he wore the shirt number 39 as a tribute to his father, who had it as his despatch number while driving taxis in Rio de Janeiro for over 20 years – which allowed him to support his son’s dream of becoming a professional footballer.
Guinmaraes even has the number tattooed on his leg.
Joelinton continues to be a key part of the plans of Magpies manager Matthias Jaissle’s, who has declared he is not for sale.
