Newcastle United are set to be without captain Bruno Guimaraes for up to two months in a significant injury blow to Eddie Howe’s side.
The Brazilian midfielder limped off late in Tuesday night’s win over Tottenham with a hamstring problem, raising immediate concern. It was only his second appearance since returning from a separate ankle issue.
Bruno Guimaraes injury blow for Newcastle
Eddie Howe admitted earlier this week that the club were awaiting the “full extent” of the problem, adding he was “a little bit worried because he has never had a problem with his hamstrings before.”
Reports now indicate Guimaraes could be sidelined for around eight weeks.
The timing is far from ideal. Newcastle currently sit 10th in the Premier League after winning just one of their last five league matches. Momentum had just begun to return following victory over Tottenham, but this setback threatens to stall progress again.
Why Guimaraes is so crucial
Since making his debut in February 2022, Guimaraes has been central to Newcastle’s identity.
The numbers underline his influence. Newcastle have failed to win any of the 10 league matches he has missed in that period. With him in the side, their Premier League win ratio stands at 53.1 percent.
Even in games where results have faltered, his presence brings structure, ball progression and leadership. His absence removes not only technical quality but also authority in midfield.
Having followed Newcastle closely this season, the midfield balance often revolves around Guimaraes’ ability to dictate tempo and shield the defence.
Limited midfield options for Howe
Without his captain, Howe is left with Sandro Tonali, Joe Willock and Jacob Ramsey as his primary senior central midfielders heading into Saturday’s FA Cup fourth-round clash with Aston Villa.
There is some hope on the horizon. Joelinton is nearing a return from a groin problem, while Lewis Miley is expected back soon after a minor dead leg.
However, depth remains stretched.
Key insights
- Guimaraes expected out for around eight weeks
- Hamstring injury sustained vs Tottenham
- Newcastle winless in league without him since 2022
- Midfield options now limited
- Joelinton nearing return
What’s next
Newcastle travel to Villa Park in the FA Cup before returning to league action, where consistency will be vital to climb the table.
Howe must now reshuffle his midfield and maintain momentum during Guimaraes’ absence.
Can Newcastle cope without Guimaraes for two months?
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