Bruno Guimarães sets 2026 tone with leadership and form at Newcastle

Bruno Guimarães has set the tone for 2026 at Newcastle United, underlining his commitment to collective success while acknowledging a growing personal impact as the club’s captain.

Newcastle closed out 2025 with a morale-boosting 3-1 win over Burnley, a match that once again highlighted Guimarães’ importance. The Brazilian midfielder wore the armband and capped the performance with a goal, continuing a season in which his influence has expanded both statistically and tactically.

Speaking to Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte after the Burnley victory, Guimarães admitted he is enjoying one of the most productive periods of his career, while stressing that numbers have never been his primary focus.

“It’s been a spectacular season so far for me in individual terms,” he said. “I’ve managed to keep the collective spirit and the commitment to the team, but right now I’m also adding goal contributions. That’s not what guides my game, but it’s an extra and shows my evolution.”

His strike against Burnley was his sixth Premier League goal of the campaign, to go with two assists, as Newcastle finished the calendar year in 10th place on 26 points. Joelinton and Yoane Wissa were also on the scoresheet as Eddie Howe’s side signed off 2025 on a positive note.

Guimarães’ role as captain has only reinforced his all-round influence. Whether dictating tempo in midfield or arriving late in the box, he has become a reference point for Newcastle’s structure and intensity.

“I’m a player who always tries to be available and give my maximum in every match,” he explained. “These numbers come from that commitment, both in training and in games.”

Crucially, he framed his progress within the club’s wider philosophy rather than personal ambition.

“We work with a philosophy where the team is always above any individual,” Guimarães added, a message that reflects the culture Howe has tried to embed since his arrival.

While Guimarães also has the World Cup later in the year on his horizon, his immediate focus remains firmly on Newcastle’s objectives. Maintaining fitness, consistency and leadership will be central as the club attempt to climb the table during a demanding second half of the season.

For Newcastle, having their captain set such a tone heading into 2026 offers both stability and belief.

Newcastle now look to build momentum as the new year begins, with Guimarães expected to remain central to Howe’s plans. His form and leadership will be vital as the club attempt to turn encouraging performances into sustained league progress.

Is Bruno Guimarães playing the best football of his Newcastle career — and can his leadership drive a strong second half of the season?