Wednesday night did not go to plan as Newcastle United midfielder Bruno Guimaraes continued his preparations for the Copa America.
While rumours continue to swirl surrounding his future, with his release clause expiring in less than two weeks, the Newcastle United talisman is in America as Brazil get ready for the Copa America.
The Selecao are hoping to go all the way, with Bruno Guimaraes yet to lift silverware since becoming a Brazil international.
As always, Brazil are one of the favourites to win the Copa America, but their preparations have not particularly gone to plan.
They have played two warm up games, winning the first 3-2 against Mexico – but that was only because of a late winner from teenage sensation Endrick.
Bruno Guimaraes and Brazil draw 1-1 with USA
Their second warmup game was against tournament hosts USA on Wednesday night, and it was an even more worrying performance.
Brazil drew 1-1 with USA, with Rodrygo’s opener being cancelled out by former Newcastle United transfer target Christian Pulisic.
Bruno started in midfield for Brazil, playing 65 minutes alongside Lucas Paqueta and Joao Gomes, the latter of which was replaced by Douglas Luiz at half time.
The Magpies’ number 39 got just over an hour in the tank, but it was far from a stellar performance.
Media react to Bruno Guimaraes’ performance
Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte have given their player ratings following the 1-1 draw with USA, with Rodrygo the only player in yellow to receive a score of more than seven.
For everyone else, it ranged between 5/10 and 6.5/10, with Bruno receiving a score of six.
On Bruno, they wrote: “He played an important role in scoring high with good interceptions, like the one that started Brazil’s first goal. He also made good passes, leaving Rodrygo in a position to score one-on-one with Turner. Defensively, however, it could help to close more spaces in front of the area, especially in the first half.”
Goal also gave provided player ratings, giving Bruno a 5/10. Only Joao Gomes got a lower score, with the Wolves ace receiving a 4/10.
On Bruno, they wrote: “Not always his usual solid self at the base of midfield. Subbed after an hour.”
Similar issues at Newcastle United
It is interesting to see Globo note that Bruno was not great at closing down space. That was also an issue in a Newcastle United shirt, with the Magpies’ midfield getting turned over time and time again.
That was mainly because of the trio Newcastle had to play. Bruno is at his best when he has a combination of Joelinton, Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff alongside him, but that rarely happened during the 2024/25 campaign.
However, that problem should not take away from what was a brilliant campaign for Bruno. He was one of the Magpies’ best players, alongside Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.
Bruno ready to ‘adjust’ ahead of the Copa America
Fortunately for Bruno and Brazil, this was just a warmup game. The real thing kicks off in just under a fortnight, as they face Costa Rica in their Copa America opener. They will also take on Paraguay and Colombia, which means a date with Toon teammate Miguel Almiron.
Following the 1-1 draw with USA, Bruno took to Instagram to reflect on a disappointing night.
He wrote: “Adjust the details you need and follow. See you at Copa America! Let’s go Brazil.”
The 26-year-old received a reply from Arsenal defender and Brazil teammate Gabriel, who commented: “Let’s go my brother.”
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