Arsenal have announced the signing of Brazil international Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United in a reported £75 million deal.
The midfielder has signed a four-year contract with an option for another year. He joins Arsenal after more than four seasons at Newcastle.
Guimaraes said he is excited about the move and believes Arsenal is the right club for his next step.
“I’m at the point of my life where I need a challenge like this,” Arsenal’s new No. 39 explained.
“I want to win trophies, I want to make history, and I think I’m in the right place to do it. I’m so excited to start.”
Guimaraes ready for new challenge
The Brazilian midfielder has made 153 Premier League appearances since joining Newcastle in January 2022. He has scored 30 goals in the competition.
Guimaraes scored nine goals in 29 league games last season. He also showed his strength in defensive areas.
The new Arsenal signing believes his style will fit well with Mikel Arteta’s team.
“I can pass the ball, run a lot and play like a warrior. I’ll never give up,” he said.
“I will try to help the team. [I’m] good with the ball, composed, very calm, and sometimes I can score some goals and hope to make everyone very, very happy here.”
Rice welcomes former rival
Guimaraes has faced Arsenal several times during his Newcastle career. He has also had battles with his new midfield partner, Declan Rice.
However, Rice reached out to him before the move.
“Rice sent me a message: ‘Come here and please no more fights, now we’re friends!’ I was happy he messaged me.”
Guimaraes also praised Arsenal’s midfield and their style of play.
“In my point of view, [the Arsenal midfield] is one of the best in Europe. Everyone is an amazing player.
“Every time I play against [Arsenal], it is very tough. They keep the ball, they defend like one. I think that combination is the way I like to play as well, and of course, joining the winners of the league is always a big opportunity.”
Guimaraes pays tribute to Newcastle
The midfielder also thanked Newcastle fans after ending his time at St James’ Park.
“This is one of the toughest decisions of my life,” he said. “When I arrived, the club was in a challenging position, and I am incredibly proud of what we achieved together.
“I fell in love with this place. I really mean that. From my first day, the supporters, my team-mates, Eddie [Howe] and the staff, and everyone connected with the club made me and my family feel at home.”
Guimaraes said he is ready for a new chapter with Arsenal. He also expressed confidence in Newcastle’s future under new head coach Matthias Jaissle.
“To the supporters, thank you will never be enough, but I say it with all my heart. I will always be proud to have been part of this club’s journey. Thank you for everything.
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