Bruno Guimaraes has completed his transfer to Arsenal from Newcastle United for a fee of £75 million, signing a contract that runs until 2030 with an option for an additional year. The 28-year-old Brazil international revealed that Declan Rice was among the first Arsenal players to welcome him, sending a message that humorously called for a truce after their past on-pitch altercations.
Declan Rice's message ends rivalry
Speaking to Arsenal's official website, Guimaraes recounted the message from Rice: 'Come here and please no more fights, now we're friends.' The pair have had several heated encounters in recent seasons, including a notable flashpoint during a match between Arsenal and Newcastle. Guimaraes expressed his delight at the message, adding, 'I was happy he messaged me, but the midfield we have here, in my point of view, is one of the best in Europe.'
The former Newcastle captain also revealed that his international teammate Gabriel Magalhaes had been persistently encouraging him to make the move. 'Big Gabi was very excited. Every time he sent me the message, "We'll wait for you, when will you come?"' Guimaraes said. 'I'm so excited to join them, not only the Brazilians, we have an amazing squad here.'
Arsenal's midfield transformation
The arrival of Guimaraes significantly bolsters an already formidable midfield, which includes Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, and Myles Lewis-Skelly. Guimaraes' industry, combative edge, and creativity in the final third are expected to add new dimensions to Mikel Arteta's side. Arsenal, who were Premier League champions last season, have been criticized at times for relying heavily on their defensive strengths, and Guimaraes is seen as a key addition to evolve their playing style.
Andrea Berta hails new signing
Sporting director Andrea Berta praised the acquisition, highlighting Guimaraes' mentality, quality, and leadership. 'Bruno is a player with a great mentality and great quality, who will bring strong leadership to our squad,' Berta said. 'With Bruno joining us, we are further strengthening the heart of our team. As we have all seen, Bruno can play as a defensive midfielder and as a box-to-box player. He combines quality with quantity, and has provided goals and assists for his team every year.'
Berta also emphasized the impact on squad competition: 'Bruno will allow Mikel to further develop our playing style and will also increase our internal competitiveness, which is essential for maintaining the standards required when we are aiming to win major trophies.'
Guimaraes' career and impact
Guimaraes joined Newcastle from Lyon in January 2022 and quickly became a fan favorite, eventually being named club captain. His performances in the Premier League and for Brazil have established him as one of the top midfielders in Europe. Over his time at Newcastle, he contributed consistently with goals and assists, and his ability to play in multiple midfield roles will provide Arteta with tactical flexibility.
The transfer is a statement of intent from Arsenal as they look to defend their title and compete in the Champions League. With Guimaraes in the squad, the Gunners now possess one of the deepest and most talented midfields in world football, capable of dominating possession and breaking down stubborn defenses.
