NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 18: Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes passes the ball despite the attentions of Barcelona's Pau Cubarsi and Pedri during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Newcastle United FC and FC Barcelona at St James' Park on September 18, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Lee Parker - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Bruno Guimaraes admitted his frustration following Newcastle United’s 2-1 loss to Barcelona in their Champions League opener. Despite a determined performance at St James’ Park, Eddie Howe’s side fell short against a dominant Barcelona team led by Hansi Flick.
The Spanish giants showed why they’re among the tournament favourites, with midfielders Pedri and Frenkie de Jong putting on a masterclass, controlling the tempo and flow of the game with ease.
Guimaraes, who captained Newcastle on the night, found it difficult to make an impact against Barca’s elite midfield duo. Speaking after the match, he described Barcelona as “so annoying,” highlighting the challenge of facing such technically gifted opponents.
Bruno Guimaraes Reveals How Barcelona Exhausted Newcastle United
After Newcastle’s defeat to Barcelona, Bruno Guimaraes spoke to TNT Sports Brazil and shared his respect for the Spanish side’s playing style. The 27-year-old described Barcelona as an “annoying” team to face due to their exceptional ball retention.
“Barcelona is frustrating because they constantly dominate possession,” Bruno explained. “They never get tired of controlling the ball. It’s a team that tests your patience since you struggle to regain possession, which wears you out physically. Then, when you finally get the ball, you’re too drained to respond effectively.”
Bruno Guimaraes and Newcastle United Take Lessons from Barcelona’s Masterclass
Newcastle United faced a tough lesson against Barcelona, highlighting the gap between their midfield and one of Europe’s best. Despite Eddie Howe’s midfield being praised as the Premier League’s finest, it struggled to match the brilliance of Barcelona’s Pedri and Frenkie de Jon who made a strong impact even while closely marked by Joelinton.
For Bruno Guimaraes and his teammates, the game served as a learning opportunity. They must figure out how to prevent elite teams like Barcelona from controlling matches and improve their composure when out of possession.
Newcastle found it frustrating as they struggled to maintain possession and often made poor choices when they did. That’s exactly the pressure Barcelona’s style imposes.
Although Newcastle left the Champions League opener without points, the experience offers a valuable lesson for Bruno and the squad to build on moving forward.
