A Monument to Greatness: Newcastle United Set to Unveil Bruno Guimarães Statue at St James’ Park Following Historic Milestone
In a landmark moment that solidifies his place among Newcastle United legends, Bruno Guimarães is set to be immortalized with a statue outside St James’ Park, a rare and powerful tribute to a player whose impact on Tyneside has transcended sport. The decision comes in the wake of Guimarães reaching a historic milestone for the Magpies—his 100th appearance in black and white, capping off a journey that has revitalized the club and reconnected a city with its footballing identity.
From his arrival in January 2022 to this defining moment in 2025, Guimarães has not only dazzled on the pitch but has also embodied the heart, grit, and ambition of a club reborn. The statue will stand as a symbol of not just individual brilliance, but of a transformative era in Newcastle United’s history.
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The Arrival That Changed Everything
When Bruno Guimarães arrived from Olympique Lyonnais for a reported £40 million fee, fans were excited but cautious. A Brazilian international? With offers reportedly from Arsenal, Juventus, and Real Madrid on the table? Could Newcastle really land such a talent, especially while battling relegation?
They could—and they did.
The signing was seen as a major coup, but few could have predicted the extent to which Guimarães would transform the team. With a masterful combination of tactical intelligence, passing precision, ball-winning tenacity, and a flair that echoes Brazil’s storied footballing lineage, Bruno quickly became the heartbeat of Eddie Howe’s midfield.
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Becoming the Face of a Revolution
Guimarães’ debut was understated, but it wasn’t long before he announced himself with audacious confidence. In just his third Premier League game, he scored a backheel winner against Southampton—a moment that made headlines and stole hearts.
What followed was a consistent elevation of standards. Bruno wasn’t just a talented midfielder—he was a general. His understanding of the game, leadership on and off the pitch, and emotional connection to the fans redefined what it meant to wear the Newcastle shirt.
At a time when Newcastle’s ownership changes and investment were raising expectations, it was Guimarães who anchored the footballing philosophy: hard work, passion, and belief.
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More Than Just Numbers
In his first 100 appearances, Guimarães tallied over 15 goals and 20 assists—a solid return for a central midfielder. But his value can’t be measured by numbers alone. He has dictated tempo, broken down opposition transitions, and frequently covered more distance per game than anyone else on the pitch.
The 2023/24 season, in particular, showcased his evolution into a complete midfielder. With injuries plaguing the squad, he stepped up not only as a creator but also as a destroyer and leader. His man-of-the-match performance in Newcastle’s first Champions League knockout stage win against Inter Milan will be remembered as one of the defining nights in modern Magpies history.
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A Fan’s Player
One of the most extraordinary aspects of Guimarães’ story is his bond with the Newcastle faithful. From day one, he expressed his love for the club, often referring to St James’ Park as “home” and the fans as “family.” He learned English quickly, participated in local charities, and embraced the community culture of the North East.
His passionate celebrations, sometimes running the length of the pitch to share the moment with fans, created iconic images. He kissed the badge not out of ritual, but out of genuine love.
His social media posts are frequently laced with messages to fans, showcasing not just professionalism but deep affection. Newcastle supporters, in return, have chanted his name louder than any since the days of Alan Shearer.
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A Historic Milestone and a Legacy Secured
Bruno Guimarães’ 100th appearance for Newcastle United came in a 3-1 win over Aston Villa, during which he scored and assisted, fittingly putting in a commanding performance. The club, fans, and football pundits alike saw it as a perfect encapsulation of what he has brought to the side.
But the announcement that followed the game sent the Toon Army into euphoria.
In a post-match press conference, Newcastle chairman Yasir Al-Rumayyan confirmed the club’s plans:
> “Bruno Guimarães has become an icon not only for our club but for the city of Newcastle. His contribution on and off the pitch has been immeasurable. Today, we announce our intention to honor him with a statue at St James’ Park—where he belongs, alongside the greats.”
The statement was met with thunderous applause in the room and a viral explosion online. It will be the first statue commissioned by the club since the legendary Alan Shearer’s was unveiled in 2016.
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Artistic Vision and Unveiling Plans
Renowned sculptor Andy Edwards, known for his statues of The Beatles and Bob Marley, has been commissioned for the project. The statue will capture Guimarães in his iconic goal celebration—arms outstretched, eyes raised, roaring in triumph.
Set to be unveiled ahead of the 2025/26 season, the statue will be placed beside those of Shearer and Sir Bobby Robson, cementing Bruno’s place in Newcastle folklore.
Edwards shared a sneak peek of early designs, explaining:
> “This statue is about more than a footballer. It’s about joy, passion, and what it means to love where you play. Bruno plays with soul, and that’s what I aim to capture in bronze.”
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A Symbol of a New Era
Bruno Guimarães’ journey reflects Newcastle’s transformation from relegation-threatened underdogs to European contenders. Alongside other key figures like Kieran Trippier, Joelinton, and Alexander Isak, Bruno helped rebrand Newcastle as a club players dream of joining—not fleeing.
His presence also influenced the next generation. Youth players in Newcastle’s academy cite him as their idol, with some even mimicking his movements and style. Local schools saw spikes in shirt sales with his name printed across the back. Tyneside embraced its new hero in a way only it can.
In many ways, Bruno represents the bridge between Newcastle’s past, present, and future. He carries the spirit of Geordie warriors of the past, the skill of global stars of the present, and the hope of a golden era to come.
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International Recognition
Guimarães’ performances didn’t go unnoticed by the international community either. He was a key member of the Brazil squad for the 2024 Copa América, helping his side to the final and earning a place in the Team of the Tournament.
His leadership and performances abroad only further validated Newcastle’s standing in the world football community. For perhaps the first time in decades, the eyes of the footballing world were regularly turned toward St James’ Park—and Bruno was often at the center of that attention.
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Player. Leader. Legend.
Statues are not handed out lightly. They are reserved for those who go beyond the call of duty—for icons who capture hearts and change destinies.
Bruno Guimarães did just that.
He joined when few would. He stayed when many predicted he’d leave for Madrid or Paris. He fought for every inch of turf, every roar from the stands, every dream reborn on Tyneside.
In doing so, he carved his name into the history of not only a club but a city.
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Voices of Newcastle
The announcement of the statue has triggered an outpouring of emotion from across the footballing community.
Alan Shearer tweeted:
> “Couldn’t be happier to welcome Bruno into the Hall of Heroes. A true legend.”
Manager Eddie Howe said:
> “Bruno represents everything we’ve tried to build—a team that’s not just skilled, but united. He deserves this more than anyone.”
Fan group Wor Flags, known for their dazzling displays at St James’, have already begun designing a new flag to accompany the statue unveiling. A preview shared online reads:
> “100 Games. Infinite Memories. Our Bruno.”
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Looking Ahead
As Newcastle United continues its climb back to elite status, Bruno Guimarães will remain at the core—now both literally and symbolically. With new signings coming in, a state-of-the-art training ground nearing completion, and Champions League football becoming a regular feature, the future is bright.
But it’s essential to remember the figures who lit the path.
The unveiling of Bruno’s statue is not just a celebration of a milestone—it is a reminder of the power of belief, of the bond between player and city, and of what happens when greatness meets opportunity.
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Conclusion
Bruno Guimarães’ legacy is no longer up for debate. It is now etched in stone—and soon, in bronze.
He came to Newcastle as a promising midfielder. He stayed to become a legend.
And now, standing tall outside the cathedral on the hill, he will forever remind generations of fans what it looks like to wear the badge with pride, to lead with passion, and to play with heart.
A monument to greatness, indeed.
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